Meridian says hydro is key to energy security and affordability

Lake Pūkaki is central to Meridian’s plans. (Image: NZME)

Thu, 20 Nov 2025

New Zealand’s electricity security of supply “looks manageable” to the mid-2030s, but more hydro storage is needed if that security is to be more affordable, Meridian Energy says.At an investors’ day on Thursday, the country’s largest gentailer said it had learnt from the 2024 dry winter, when it was caught short on generation and faced extremely high wholesale prices, which sent profit levels plummeting.Meridian told investors winter 2024 was a turning point, saying the tight storage conditions during that period...

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