About Us
Transpower is the state-owned enterprise that owns and operates the National Grid – or high voltage transmission network – that carries electricity around the country.
The National Grid is made up of over 12,000 km of high-voltage transmission lines and more than 170 substations. It connects power stations owned by generating companies to substations feeding the local networks that distribute electricity to homes and businesses. Some large industrial users of electricity also receive their power directly from the National Grid.
The New Zealand power system is interconnected between New Zealand's North and South Islands via a High Voltage Direct Current link (HVDC).
This Grid New Zealand website describes the existing National Grid and details Transpower's committed or proposed investments over the next ten years.
Projects are sorted as either backbone or regional projects:
- Backbone projects typically increase the capacity on Transpower's main 220 kV network
- Regional projects are often site-specific projects, or otherwise involve the lower capacity and regional 110 kV networks
- Search for a project
These projects are necessary to ensure that New Zealanders continue to enjoy a secure electricity supply into the future.
The Electricity Commission regularly update a list of Transpower’s transmission investments proposed to and approved by them, which is available off their website.
Are there any other projects planned?
Yes, there are many other projects that are still being investigated. Transpower must continually plan and develop the National Grid to meet increasing demand and connect new generation.
Transpower’s Annual Planning Report provides a full description of all projects currently under investigation, including those detailed on this site.
What is a "committed" project?
A committed project is one which has received Electricity Commission approval (if necessary) or is the subject of a signed agreement between Transpower and one of its customers (which includes lines companies, generators and major industrial users.)
What is a "proposed" project?
A proposed project is one which has been proposed to the Electricity Commission but has not yet been approved.