Inspection Solutions trial of drone in a box
Through a drone‑in‑a‑box trial, Northpower advanced inspection capability, using autonomous technology to assess solar infrastructure faster and more consistently.
Increasing the capacity of Transpower’s Kawerau substation
Location: Kawerau, Bay of Plenty
Start date: December 2023
Completion date: October 2024
Project client: Transpower
Project partners: Hayes Demolition, Connell Contractors
We are specialists at enhancing critical infrastructure
Through our extensive project management expertise and deep technical capability, we upgrade our clients’ infrastructure to meet the growing demands as New Zealand moves towards an electrified future.
Transpower’s Kawerau substation is a crucial piece of their network, responsible for linking nearby geothermal and hydroelectric stations to the national grid.
5809
person-hours invested
14
specialists delivering the project
250MVA
transformer installed
Powering for the future
Transpower projected an increase in supply due to several proposed new generation connections, which required increased capacity at the Kawerau substation.
Our stations team delivered the upgrade of a 220kV transformer bay at the substation, which involved replacing one of the existing 80 MVA transformers with a newer 250 MVA model, increasing the capacity of the substation from 330MVA to 500MVA.
Ensuring excellence in delivery
We have a reputation for delivering great outcomes for our clients, thanks to our project management expertise and long-standing relationships with trusted, experienced subcontractors.
The project team engaged several contractors to undertake the civil components of the project in preparation for the installation of the new transformer: Hayes Demolition removed the original transformer and its foundation, Connell Contractors then laid the new concrete foundation for the replacement transformer, and Avalon Rope Access Services aided Northpower’s stations team in the removal of redundant cabling in a confined space.
Leveraging our capability
The project team drew on the capability of different parts of our business to ensure successful project delivery.
Our specialised HV power technicians conducted the decommissioning of the existing transformer, and the commissioning of the replacement transformer, which utilised much of the same equipment. Our transmission lines team removed the existing transformers tie-line before installing a new one, connecting the replacement transformer to the rest of the substation.
Local high voltage jointers and technicians were supported by teams from our Rotorua and Hamilton locations throughout the project, showcasing our depth of technical expertise.
Overcoming procurement constraints
During the electrical work, multiple pieces of equipment needed to be replaced. Long international shipping times presented the risk of delaying the project beyond Transpower’s commissioning deadline. The project team adopted a nimble approach and sourced the required ancillary equipment locally to ensure the project was kept on track.
Outcomes
Northpower’s contribution resulted in increased capacity of this substation, enabling Transpower to better support the growing energy demands of Aotearoa New Zealand, as we all move towards an electrified future.
Read more Northpower case studies
Enabling reliable fault response for Powerco
In partnership with Powerco, Northpower implemented digital rostering using Microsoft Teams Shifts, improving visibility, coordination and efficiency in fault response operations.
Puna Komaru solar farm
In Maungatapere, Northpower is developing solar farm infrastructure, supporting renewable electrification and delivering locally owned clean energy for Northland.
