WEL Networks and Infratec have entered into major contracts for the supply and build of New Zealand’s largest battery storage facility.

The project will play a pivotal role in the reduction of emissions in the Waikato and will support New Zealand’s Net Zero goal of becoming 100% renewable by 2030.

Construction on the 35MW Battery Energy Storage System on Rotowaro Road in Huntly will start in July 2022 and it’s expected to be commissioned in December 2022.

The major equipment-supply contractors include Saft and Power Electronics NZ Ltd. Local electrical and civil contractors will be used where possible as part of the construction and installation phases.

Saft Executive Vice President for Energy Storage Solutions, Hervé Amossé, says Saft are proud to pioneer the utility scale energy storage system with WEL Networks and Infratec in New Zealand.

Power Electronics NZ Ltd Operations Director Brent Sheridan sees New Zealand as a key market for storage solutions with future generation growth primarily being led by solar and wind technology.

The battery will store enough energy to meet the daily demands of over 2000 homes and be capable of providing fast reserves support for the North Island grid.

WEL Networks and Infratec are exploring new solar farm options that will complement the battery storage in an effort to ensure the lowest costs of renewable power to local consumers.