Recent Developments in the New Zealand Geothermal Industry

Abstract

Geothermal energy is used mainly for generation of electricity in New Zealand, and provides about 6% of that generated. Major changes have occurred within the geothermal sector as a result of deregulation of the electricity generation and supply industry. A new power station, Poihipi (55 MW installed capacity) on the Wairakei field has been built and the plant tested. This station will be operated on a load following basis. Construction of another new station, at Rotokawa field, is due to start in 1997. Many small scale « 100 MW) developments involving private companies and local suppliers are now applying for environmental permits. It is predicted that geothermal energy will, in future, provide an increasing proportion of the electricity generation, rising to about 11 % by the year 2020.