New Zealand has set the target to fully transition to renewable energy
New Zealand, known for its ambitious environmental protection goals, has set itself the target of transitioning entirely to renewable energy by 2030. This is one of the boldest commitments globally, aimed at reducing CO2 emissions and relying on renewable energy sources for its national energy mix. An important part of achieving these goals is the construction of efficient energy storage systems.
Saft Provides Large-Scale Solutions
One of the groundbreaking projects supporting New Zealand’s energy transition is the agreement between Genesis Energy, the country’s leading energy company, and Saft, a subsidiary of TotalEnergies. Saft has committed to delivering a 100 MW battery system with a capacity of 200 MWh, which will be installed at the Huntly Power Station on the North Island. The chosen solution is lithium-ion batteries from the “Intensium Shift+” series—modern technology combining energy storage, power conversion systems, and advanced control systems.
The Huntly Power Station, the project location, is a critical element of New Zealand’s energy infrastructure. The new storage system is set to be operational in the third quarter of 2026, aiming to balance the supply and demand for electricity. With its experience in similar projects, Saft is becoming a trusted partner in this transition, providing high-efficiency and reliable Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS).
Record-Breaking Battery Systems in New Zealand
This is not the first such initiative in the country. In 2023, New Zealand’s largest battery system, Rotohiko, was launched in Huntly, with a capacity of 35 MW and 35 MWh. Managed by WEL Network, this system has already completed testing and serves as a stabilizer for the national power grid. This is another step for New Zealanders to ensure that renewable energy is fully utilized, with excess energy stored for use during periods of higher demand.
Despite being smaller than the upcoming Saft project, Rotohiko serves as an example of the effective use of battery technology in the national energy system. It not only allows for storing excess energy but also facilitates smooth balancing of supply and demand, which is crucial for grid stability.
Source: tamarindo.global