GeoFuture – replacing the old with the new

Geothermal power is clean and reliable, available when the sun isn’t shining and/or the wind isn’t blowing, It is one of the keys to decarbonising New Zealand’s electricity. However, our Wairãkei power generation plant is the second oldest geothermal power plant in the world. Contact is planning to do something about this, replacing the old Wairãkei A & B generators by building Stage 2 of the Te Mihi power plant. The new plant will generate more power more efficiently, ensuring it is done in an efficient and sustainable way while reducing effects on the Waikato River and its local tributaries.This will require significant expansion of the existing steam field infrastructure, and drilling and connecting additional production and reinjection wells. Te Mihi Power Station Stage 2, the existing Te Mihi Power Station units 1 and 2, and Poihipi Power Station will all be operated as an integrated system, optimising their ability to convert geothermal energy into electricity.Come and learn more about this important project for the future of New Zealand’s power supply from engineer, Mike Dunstall – General Manager Development, Contact Energy.