01 Nov 2021
Today Transpower launched Envision Opportunities — a new geospatial tool to help developers of new generation projects better understand the current capacity of the New Zealand transmission network, when identifying where it’s best to connect.
The tool is being launched on the back of increasing interest in new generation applications in New Zealand, most for renewables such as wind and solar. In the last 5 years generation connection enquiries to Transpower have gone from around 5 a year to over 40 in the last year, and are tracking to increase further again this year.
John Clarke, General Manager Grid Development says Envision Opportunities provides an indicative view of the likely capacity available for generation at any given connection point in Transpower’s nationwide high voltage transmission network.
“Deciding on locations for new electricity generation is complex, with factors such as energy source, environmental approvals, constructability, and property rights to name a few. This tool gives a key part of the picture with an indication of current transmission capacity.
“While a potential generation developer will still need to come to Transpower to do a detailed assessment of their application, Envision Opportunities can help identify more suitable locations to connect before they approach us, potentially saving both developers and Transpower time and cost.”
“Alongside looking at what new generation we can connect into the grid as it stands, Transpower is also looking at what investments and upgrades we can make to further improve the capacity on the grid. We are planning for a future where much more renewable generation will be connected in the coming years, as generators meet a growing demand for renewable electricity,” John says.
The Envision Opportunities tool supports Transpower’s wider work to prepare for a zero-carbon future. The Net Zero Grid Pathways programme is developing Transpower’s programme of investments on the backbone of Aotearoa’s electricity transmission grid to enable the electrification of the economy and assist with meeting the country’s decarbonisation targets.
Transpower has also revamped its new connections web pages to help provide more targeted information to new connection applicants whether new load or generation.
To check out a generation connection on Envision Opportunities
To read about our connection process
Downloads