26 May 2026
5 months ago
966 views
New Zealand's Electricity Authority will implement new rules from July 1 to prevent the country's four largest gentailers—Contact, Genesis, Mercury, and Meridian—from favoring their own retail arms over smaller competitors in managing wholesale electricity price risk. These rules aim to create a level playing field by requiring equal treatment in hedge contracts, regular compliance reporting, and reflecting actual electricity costs in retail prices, with increased penalties for serious breaches starting in 2027. This initiative complements broader government efforts to enhance energy security, affordability, and competition through infrastructure fast-tracking, funding support, procurement of LNG facilities, and promoting renewable energy adoption.
02 Apr 2026
6 months ago
1394 views
New Zealand’s largest wind farm, the Southland Windfarm developed by Contact Energy, has received fast-track approval, enabling it to generate up to 380 MW and power 150,000 households while creating significant local jobs and economic benefits. The project, spanning 58 km² in eastern Southland, overcomes previous consent challenges through a streamlined Fast-track process designed to expedite critical infrastructure development and support national energy goals. This initiative aligns with the government’s vision for reliable, affordable energy, helping to reduce prices, enhance supply security, and stimulate regional investment and growth.
25 Feb 2026
8 months ago
1277 views
The Applied Doctorates Scheme, supported by a $20 million government investment, connects PhD students with industry to address real-world challenges while developing advanced research and commercial skills. The 2025 cohort focused on energy innovation with 25 industry-led projects, and the 2026 round is now open for applications centered on Aerospace, Defence, and Security. This initiative aims to build a skilled research workforce that drives economic and community benefits for New Zealand through applied science.
04 Aug 2025
1 year ago
2064 views
Energy Ministers Simon Watts and Shane Jones welcome the establishment of a strategic energy reserve by major power companies in New Zealand to enhance energy security and maintain affordable prices. The initiative aims to address vulnerabilities in the energy system highlighted by last year's dry winter, which led to high prices and pressure on industries and households. The government is taking steps to strengthen the energy system by ensuring fuel supply security, supporting investment, and enhancing market competition to reduce costs and promote economic growth.