Who is launching New Zealand's largest battery energy storage system?

WEL Networks and Infratec are proud to announce the launch of New Zealand’s largest Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) with commissioning underway.

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.

What is a New Zealand battery?

Energy type: Battery storing electricity generated by New Zealand’s hydro, geothermal and wind power stations when there is low demand. Construction: Begun July 2024 with the battery expected to be operational by March 2026.

Does Saft offer a battery energy storage system for New Zealand?

Saft executive vice president for energy storage solutions Hervé Amossé add: “Saft is proud to provide this first Battery Energy Storage System for New Zealand in the Waikato. We are excited to start this operation phase of the battery for which we will continue to support our partners.

How does a lithium ion battery work in New Zealand?

How it works The lithium-ion batteries (similar technology to those used in EVs and laptops) will store electricity generated by New Zealand’s hydro, geothermal and wind power stations when there is low demand. Without this storage this electricity would otherwise go to waste.

Is New Zealand a key market for storage solutions?

Power Electronics NZ Ltd Operations Director Brent Sheridan sees New Zealand as a key market for storage solutions with future generation growth primarily being led by solar and wind technology. “Both these forms of generation work perfectly in combination with batteries to provide a continuous and stable energy supply.