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 raises the capacity of the Benmore hydropower station from 552MW to 570MW. Ōhau B has increased from 216MW to 220MW, while Ōhau C has risen from 212MW to 220MW.
Meridian said the capacity increases followed detailed desktop studies, engineering reviews, testing and changes to operating conditions at the three plants.
The additional capacity is expected to provide more flexible hydropower generation to support New Zealand’s electricity system without the need to build new generating infrastructure.
Meridian General Manager Generation Tania Palmer said the increases highlight 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,” Palmer said.
“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 July 30, 2026.
