Transpower looks to facilitate renewables

Media release
30 May 2008

Transpower looks to facilitate renewables with targeted transmission investment

Transpower has released its documentation for consultation on two investigation projects to facilitate the connection of renewable generation to the National Grid.

The two projects – one around Wairakei in the Central North Island and the second between Roxburgh and Benmore in the lower South Island - have been identified because of their potential to unlock renewable generation in both these regions. Documents identifying the need and the draft long list of options for both projects are available from www.gridnewzealand.co.nz.

General Manager Grid Development, Tim George said that greater transmission capacity could provide certainty for generation investors in both regions with flow-on benefits for renewable generation in other areas.

“Greater transmission capacity in and around Wairakei could not only facilitate new renewable generation in Central North Island, but could also allow for the connection of greater renewable generation in the Hawke’s Bay and Bay of Plenty regions."

“These are the first investigation projects we’ve worked on that look at how to meet increased generation rather than increased demand. This challenges us to think about how future generation might develop and how to connect it, even though it might not exist now.

Consultation will help to clarify how we approach this."

Transpower has worked with the Electricity Commission in agreeing an appropriate process for progressing these investments. The process will involve engagement and consultation with interested parties in two stages before a grid investment proposal is possibly submitted in late October 2008.

ENDS

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