28 Mar 2022
Transpower has released a Request for Proposal (RFP) for a Non-Transmission Solution to provide voltage support in the Waikato and upper North Island, following a successful Request for Information (RFI) on possible solutions last year.
General Manager Grid Development John Clarke thanked those who responded to the RFI and said a range of possibilities have been identified as potential alternatives to a dynamic reactive device in Auckland, which Transpower currently holds Commerce Commission approval to build. Current projections are that a solution to support voltage stability in the region will be needed by 2026.
“As new technologies emerge, Transpower is maintaining an openness to reviewing our previous plans to ensure we make the most effective and efficient infrastructure investments for New Zealand,” Mr Clarke said.
“Managing voltage stability on the national grid is important as the generation mix in New Zealand changes. It will help ensure the electricity supply to the Waikato and upper North Island remains stable and reliable.”
Non-Transmission Solutions that are shortlisted will be evaluated against the counterfactual of installing a dynamic reactive device (a STATCOM) in Auckland.
Mr Clarke said a Non-Transmission Solution (NTS), such as a grid scale battery, may potentially defer or replace the need to install the dynamic reactive device. If this was the case, it would provide a solution at a lower total cost to New Zealand. A successful NTS provider may be able to utilise their solution to also help meet peak electricity demand on cold evenings and provide added resources for the reserve market.
Acknowledging that the limited supply of land close to Transpower substations in Auckland could be a barrier for an NTS, potential providers will be able to consider the option of siting their NTS at Transpower’s Pakuranga substation.
The RFP is a two-stage process; proposals will first undergo a technical evaluation, then a shortlist of viable solutions will be invited through to a closed tender.
The RFP is open until 3.30pm, Monday 23 May 2022.
View the RFP document on the GETS website.
Background
For information on the initial investigation to manage voltage stability in the Waikato and Upper North Island region and the approved Major Capex Proposal, visit the Waikato and Upper North Island Voltage Management Investigation project page.
For further information, please contact:
Rachael Drummond, Senior Corporate Communications Advisor, 021 394 803.