On 23 December 2011, Transpower submitted to the Commission an economic investment proposal to increase the capacity of an interconnecting transformer at Transpower's Kawerau substation for approval.
Transpower's application
Norske Skog Tasman proposes to connect a new geothermal power station at Kawerau in December 2012. In addition, a number of other generators have advised Transpower their plans to build up to 135 MW of geothermal generation in the region within the next 15 years. The capacity of the interconnecting transformers at Kawerau limits the amount of generation that can be exported out of Kawerau. To increase the export limit and thus enable development of further generation in the area Transpower proposes to replace one of its interconnecting transformers with a 250 MVA unit. Transpower seeks $9.5 million for the project.
Commission's decision
On 19 April 2012 the Commission issued a notice of intention to approve Transpower's application. Our reasons for the notice are set out in the Reasons paper available on this site.
Under rule 15.2 of section III of part F of the Electricity Governance Rules 2003, Transpower, a designated transmission customer or a party substantially affected by the proposal may request the Commission to hold a public conference to provide a final opportunity for comment on the proposal by 4th May 2012. If we do not receive any requests for a public conference or if we decide not to hold a public conference, then our decision, as set out in this notice of intention, is final.
We did not receive any requests for a public conference by 4th May 2012, so our decision as set out in the Reasons paper is final.
