Which energy company is building New Zealand's first grid-connected battery energy storage system?

Meridian Energy is building New Zealand’s first large-scale grid-connected battery energy storage system (BESS) at Ruakākā on North Island Paris, January 10, 2023 – Saft, a subsidiary of TotalEnergies, has been awarded a major contract by Meridian Energy to construct New Zealand’s first large-scale grid-connected BESS.

Will a 100 mw storage system improve New Zealand's national grid?

The 100 MW storage system, to be operated by Meridian Energy, is designed to improve the stability of New Zealand’s national grid as intermittent renewable power generation increases in the country.

How important are battery energy storage systems to New Zealand's electricity supply?

Battery energy storage systems are set to play an increasingly important role in New Zealand’s electricity supply.

How does electricity supply work in New Zealand?

Supplying electricity to homes and businesses across New Zealand involves three key elements: generating electricity, transporting electricity to distribution companies, and then selling it to customers.

Who buys electricity in New Zealand?

Lines companies are mostly owned by consumer trusts or local councils, but some are privately owned. Retail companies buy electricity from generators and on-sell that electricity to businesses and households across New Zealand. For most New Zealand electricity customers, there's a lot of retailers and brands to buy electricity from.

Where does New Zealand's energy come from?

According to official statistics, about 40% of New Zealand’s primary energy comes from renewable sources including geothermal and hydroelectric, which is the third highest among members of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, after Norway and Iceland. That equates to about 82% renewables for electricity generation.