The BESS system will store energy for later use, making renewable energy supply more flexible and helping to address network supply constraints. CentrePort plans to install a pilot-scale 1000kWhr / 500kW BESS facility to meet current operational needs and support electrification efforts.
This BESS system will complement the Wellington port’s recently established 122kW solar array, and a larger 430kW solar array is scheduled to be built in 2025.
The Chief Executive of CentrePort, Anthony Delaney, emphasized that the pilot BESS will improve the efficiency of existing assets, increase resilience, and facilitate the adoption of low and zero-emission solutions in the future.
CentrePort’s commitment to sustainability is already evident through its fleet of 100% electric port trucks, and the company is exploring further low-emission plant options. Delaney noted that the BESS system not only benefits the port and its customers but also supports New Zealand''s broader supply chain, particularly in managing local energy constraints.
The BESS initiative is backed by a US$500,000 loan from Ara Ake, an organization dedicated to advancing energy innovation in New Zealand. This collaboration aims to demonstrate the commercial potential of customer-led BESS solutions in addressing energy challenges.
CentrePort''s progress in its energy transition also includes its renewable energy generation, battery management systems, and energy-efficient infrastructure like LED lighting across its container terminal. Looking ahead, the port anticipates expanding its renewable energy capacity, including further electrification projects like container handling plant electrification and shore power for ships, which have already received support from EECA’s Low Emission Transport Fund.
The BESS is set to deliver huge benefits to the Waikato by providing an energy storage facility which will improve the resilience of the New Zealand electricity system, while also increasing the value of intermittent renewable generation in the region.
WEL Networks chief executive Garth Dibley says: "The battery will maximise the benefits of solar power, providing charging capacity for electric vehicles and back up during grid emergencies. It will store enough energy to meet the daily demands of over 2,000 homes and will be capable of providing fast reserves support for the North Island grid."
The battery''s role in reducing the need for non-renewable energy sources will be a key contributor to lowering emissions in support of New Zealand''sNet Zeroemissions target by 2050.
Infratec general manager Nick Bibby says: "Our team have worked closely with our parent company WEL Networks, our major suppliers and local electrical and civil contractors on this innovative build. The result is a battery that is the first of its scale to be built in New Zealand."
Construction on the 35MWh BESS in Rotowaro, Huntly commenced in July 2022. The build programme was not without its challenges, with a few delays due to the supply chain issues being experienced internationally, however the construction and supply partners worked collaboratively to produce a world-class result.
The major equipment supply contractors include Saft and Power Electronics NZ Ltd. Local electrical contractors WEL Services, Northpower and Hamilton Electricians, civil contractor Connells and support services of Mainfreight and McLeod Hamilton Hiabs, were used in the construction and commissioning of the BESS.
Saft executive vice president for energy storage solutions Hervé Amossé add: "Saft is proud to provide this first Battery Energy Storage System for New Zealand in the Waikato. We are excited to start this operation phase of the battery for which we will continue to support our partners. We have worked hand-in-hand with WEL Networks and Infratec to install and commission this project on time so that New Zealand can increase its share of renewable energy for its citizens and move closer to its goal of net zero emissions by 2050."
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.
"Power Electronics are proud to be the suppliers of inverters for this project. We are delighted to be working with Infratec and WEL in assisting the decarbonisation of New Zealand and striving towards a 100% renewable energy country," he says.
NewPower Energy chief executive Grant Smith says: "This is an exciting milestone for our NewPower business, being first to market bringing off shore storage technology to enhance local renewable generation and support our national transmission system and renewable generationmarket."
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