Meridian to replace five transformers at Manapōuri
Transformer replacements follow expert advice on gassing risks as Meridian aims for minimal disruption at New Zealand’s largest hydropower station.
Image for illustrative purposes
New Zealand, Southland: Meridian Energy has announced plans to replace five transformers at its Manapōuri Power Station in Southland, following concerns over elevated gassing levels. The decision comes after independent expert advice flagged potential issues similar to those found in previously removed units.
In a stock exchange release, Meridian confirmed that the station currently operates with six transformers from Australia’s Wilson Transformer Company (WTC). Seven WTC transformers were originally delivered in 2015 and 2018, but two were removed in 2023 due to performance concerns. A new unit from WTC was added in late 2023.
Meridian stated that the five remaining WTC units are expected to exhibit similar issues and will be phased out over the next two and a half years.
“We are moving quickly to replace these transformers and are confident this will have limited to no impact on generation capacity,” said Tania Palmer, Meridian’s General Manager of Generation.
Manapōuri Power Station, located in Fiordland National Park, is New Zealand’s largest hydroelectric facility, supplying power primarily to the Tiwai Point aluminium smelter.
The company is expecting the first two replacement transformers, manufactured in Indonesia, to arrive in early 2025. Discussions with WTC regarding a resolution are ongoing, with no financial settlement reached to date.
Meridian emphasised that acting swiftly was critical to maintaining operational reliability.
Source: Radio New Zealand
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