Hydro operators can run down lake levels if supply alert is triggered

Lake Pūkaki levels could be drawn lower in a power crisis. (Image: NZME)

Thu, 22 Aug 2024

Transpower will allow hydro operators to run some lakes below their usual consent levels if a security of supply alert is triggered.The Aug 22 announcement follows consultation with the electricity industry. Controlled hydro storage is at only 55% of average levels for the time of year and is among the lowest levels in around 90 years of record keeping. Transpower's executive general manager of operations, Chantelle Bramley, said the decision was largely supported by industry. It would allow generators to access contingent hydro storag...

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