Site blessing the start for new electricity infrastructure

Cambridge, New Zealand – 19 September 2023 –Waipā Networks and Transpower have announced the start of a major infrastructure project aimed at strengthening the electricity supply in the thriving Waipā region. Marked by a traditional site blessing led by local mana whenua, Ngāti Korokī-Kahukura and Ngāti Hauā, the project will reinforce the security and reliability of electricity supply into Cambridge and the Waipā region.

With a core goal is to increase electricity capacity in the local distribution network, the project involves building a Transpower-owned 220Kv National Grid Substation (GXP) and a Local Network 33kV Substation owned by Waipā Networks. By working closely with landowners, the project has confirmed an ideal site near existing transmission infrastructure for efficiency.

Waipā Networks Chief Executive Sean Horgan highlighted the project’s significance: “This project represents a strategic response to the anticipated growth in the Waipā region, particularly in Cambridge.”

“It means that we have the infrastructure in place to deal with the projected regional growth. With GDP growth for Cambridge currently more than twice the national average the Hautapu substation ensures network resilience, increased capacity, and security of supply for both Cambridge and the wider Waipā region,” he said.

Expected completion date for the project is early 2025.

About Waipā Networks:
Waipā Networks is the electricity distribution utility for the Waipā region, providing electricity to over 40,000 customers in Cambridge, Te Awamutu, Kāwhia and surrounding areas.

About Transpower:
Transpower is the owner and operator of the National Grid, a high-voltage transmission network that connects areas of power generation with towns and cities across New Zealand. Their infrastructure plays a crucial role in maintaining the stability and reliability of the nation’s electricity supply.

For media enquiries:

Anna Greenhill
Head of Customer & Community Engagement
Waipā Networks
anna.greenhill@waipanetworks.co.nz
021814092