Meridian Energy has received a new 108-tonne transformer for the Manapōuri Power Station, marking a significant step toward restoring full capacity at New Zealand’s largest hydro station. The power station, which has been operating at a reduced capacity for two years due to transformer faults, will benefit from the installation of the first of two new transformers aimed at returning the station closer to its full 800 MW capacity.
The transformer’s journey from Australia involved several logistics partners, including Move Logistics and Meisters, to facilitate transport from Bluff, across Lake Manapōuri via barge, and through a two-kilometer tunnel to its installation point in the underground station hall. Yanosh Irani, Meridian’s acting general manager of generation, acknowledged the efforts, highlighting the planning and coordination needed to complete the multi-stage delivery.
With an output increase from 640 MW to approximately 768 MW, the new transformer is expected to enhance New Zealand’s electricity supply ahead of winter 2025. The addition will also enable Meridian to reduce generation at Waitaki, allowing Lake Pukaki levels to stabilize.
The transformer is set to be fully commissioned by Christmas, while a second replacement and a backup are scheduled to arrive in late 2025. Neal Barclay, Meridian’s chief executive, noted that global demand has impacted delivery schedules for the second transformer and the spare, with installation expected by the end of 2025.
Meridian’s Manapōuri Power Station, located in Fiordland National Park at West Arm of Lake Manapōuri, generates enough electricity for approximately 619,000 average homes, reinforcing its critical role in New Zealand’s renewable energy supply.