Meridian Energy has increased the maximum operating capacity of three hydropower stations in New Zealand’s Waitaki scheme, adding a combined 30MW of renewable generation capacity.
The reassessment has increased the total capacity of the Benmore hydropower station from 552MW to 570MW, while Ōhau B has risen from 216MW to 220MW and Ōhau C from 212MW to 220MW.
Meridian said the increases follow detailed desktop studies, engineering reviews, testing and changes to operating conditions at the three plants.
The additional capacity is intended to increase the amount of flexible hydropower generation available to support New Zealand’s electricity system without requiring the construction of new generating infrastructure.
Meridian GM Generation Tania Palmer said the increases demonstrate the value of continued investment in the company’s existing hydropower assets.
“The upshot is that the country has more power available than previously thought. Hydro generation plays a critical role in New Zealand’s renewable electricity system, so getting this much more capacity from these iconic assets is an outstanding outcome.
“It’s a great example of how Kiwi ingenuity is helping strengthen New Zealand’s electricity system without the time and cost of building new infrastructure from scratch.”
The revised capacities for Benmore, Ōhau B and Ōhau C took effect on 30 July 2026.
