Powering Aotearoa, New Zealand’s Future: The Ruakākā BESS Project and McKay’s Pivotal Role

Aotearoa New Zealand is on a journey towards a sustainable energy future, and innovative projects like Meridian Energy’s Ruakākā Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) are crucial to set the stage for a more resilient and effective electricity grid.

This landmark project in Ruakākā, Northland, shows the power of collaboration and innovative technology in achieving New Zealand’s renewable energy goals. McKay saw its potential from the beginning as a project that would help contribute to the decarbonisation of not just the local region, but also nationally through its storage of energy for those times when load peaks may occur.

With McKay leading the installation and elements of design and constructability of the 100MW/200MWh energy storage system for our partner Saft, Meridian’s Ruakākā BESS project is poised to deliver these and other benefits for New Zealand’s energy landscape and decarbonisation efforts when it comes online in late 2024.

The project is designed to enhance the stability and reliability of New Zealand’s electricity grid. By storing excess energy generated, including from renewable sources like wind and solar, the BESS can release this energy during periods of high demand. This capability smooths out the fluctuations in energy supply, ensuring a more stable and resilient grid. For Aotearoa, where electricity demand is projected to increase as part of the country’s climate change response, this stability is crucial.

One of the most significant benefits of the Ruakākā BESS is its ability to facilitate the integration of renewable energy into the grid. Renewable energy sources, while sustainable, fluctuate by nature. The BESS helps address this challenge by storing surplus energy during high supply/low demand periods and discharging it when grid support is needed. This functionality supports Aotearoa’s transition from fossil fuels, reducing our carbon footprint and moving us closer to our decarbonisation goals.

Meridian Energy: Leading the Charge

Meridian Energy, as New Zealand’s largest renewable energy generator, is at the forefront of the country’s sustainable energy initiatives. Their industry leadership in undertaking the largest utility-scale BESS project highlights a commitment to creating a more resilient energy future. Meridian’s investment in advanced energy storage solutions like the BESS demonstrates their proactive approach to addressing the challenges of integrating renewable energy technologies whilst maintaining grid stability.

Saft: Innovation in Battery Technology

Meridian’s Ruakākā BESS project leverages Saft’s advanced lithium-ion battery technology, which is renowned for efficiency, durability, and reliability. With over a century of experience in battery technology, Saft’s contribution ensures that the BESS is equipped with state-of-the-art storage capabilities, providing robust performance and long-term benefits.

McKay: The Construction Partner of Choice

Our involvement in the Ruakākā BESS project underscores our reputation as a trusted and capable partner in the electricity generation sector. McKay’s legacy dates back to 1936, and during this time, McKay has built a name for itself through its expertise in complex electrical, automation, and renewable energy projects. Our commitment to quality and innovation and our in-house renewables, engineering, and electrical contracting capabilities have made us the go-to partner for complex and large-scale energy projects.

Our role in the Ruakākā BESS project includes the construction and implementation of the advanced battery storage system. We are also providing specialist pre-commissioning and commissioning support where our partner Saft requires. Our extensive experience and technical know-how is helping to ensure the project is executed to the highest standards, delivering a reliable and efficient solution for New Zealand’s energy needs.

From the initial design phases to the final installation, our skilled team has ensured that the BESS can be easily constructed to meet critical quality criteria. Our attention to detail and commitment to excellence have been pivotal in overcoming the technical and logistical challenges. By leveraging deep industry knowledge and hands-on expertise, McKay has ensured that the Ruakākā BESS meets and exceeds expectations.

Positive Impact on New Zealand’s Energy Landscape

The Ruakākā BESS project brings multiple benefits to New Zealand’s energy system:

• Enhanced Grid Stability: By providing a reliable backup power source, the BESS helps mitigate fluctuations in energy supply, ensuring a stable and resilient grid.
• Increased Renewable Energy Utilization: The ability to store and dispatch energy as needed supports greater integration of renewable energy sources, reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
• Economic Growth: The project stimulates local economic growth through job creation during the construction and operational phases.
• Environmental Benefits: By helping manage supply fluctuations through a low carbon footprint, the BESS can contribute significantly to Aotearoa’s decarbonisation goals, reducing our reliance on fossil fuels and supporting a cleaner environment.

Overall, the Ruakākā project is a significant moment in Aotearoa’s energy story and one that I hope will mark the shift to a brighter, more carbon-neutral future for all of us. We are proud to have partnered with Saft to deliver this cutting-edge facility for Meridian, and we are excited to see its impact!