Meridian Energy has announced it will replace five transformers at its Manapōuri Power Station following independent expert advice highlighting concerns over elevated gassing levels.
In a statement to the New Zealand Stock Exchange, the power company confirmed that the decision follows a technical review of its current transformer fleet, which includes six units supplied by Australia’s Wilson Transformer Company (WTC).
Meridian originally installed seven WTC transformers at the Southland hydroelectric station between 2015 and 2018. However, two of those were withdrawn from service in 2023 after gassing issues were detected. A replacement WTC transformer was delivered late last year.
After further evaluation, Meridian received independent advice warning that the remaining five WTC units from the 2015 and 2018 batches could face similar issues. As a result, the company has committed to replacing them within the next two and a half years.
“We are moving quickly to replace the five transformers supplied by WTC in 2015 and 2018 and are confident this will result in limited to no impact on generation capacity,” said Tania Palmer, Meridian’s general manager of generation.
Located within Fiordland National Park at Lake Manapōuri, the Manapōuri Power Station is the country’s largest hydroelectric facility. It plays a critical role in powering the Tiwai Point aluminium smelter, one of New Zealand’s major industrial energy consumers.
Meridian said it was vital to act swiftly in response to the transformer concerns, emphasizing its commitment to maintaining uninterrupted power supply.
Two replacement transformers manufactured in Indonesia are expected to arrive early next year. Further details on the timeline for the remaining units were not provided.
While the company has not disclosed the financial implications of the replacements, it confirmed ongoing discussions with WTC regarding a resolution.
“At the current time, a resolution has not been reached,” the company stated.
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