Security of Supply and Capacity
Energy
Hydro storage continues to be high at 144% of average for the time of year, however storage levels are starting to trend downward as hydro generation remains relatively high and South Island inflows have dropped away.
Methanex has returned its second Motunui train to service for the first time since May, effectively doubling its gas offtake up to 160TJ.
Capacity
Mild temperatures and longer days are pushing peak demand down, taking pressure off capacity margins. We expect this trend to continue as we move through spring.
Our NZ Generation Balance planning tool is indicating that there are no potential generation shortfalls over the next 200 days, assuming all generation not on outage is offered and at least 20% of wind generation capacity is available. Please click here for more information.
Electricity Market Commentary
Weekly Demand
Demand continues to drop as we move further into spring. It was 774 GWh last week, peaking at 5,968 MW on Thursday 22 September 18:30.
Weekly Prices
Reflecting high hydrology, low average prices continue with short price spikes during periods of high demand and/or low wind generation. Prices averaged $45/MWh and reached a high of $306/MWh on Monday 19 September 18:00.
Generation Mix
The percentage of renewable generation continues to be high at 93% with hydro generation comprising two-thirds of the energy mix. Thermal generation continues to be low.
HVDC
The HVDC was in north flow for most of the week reflecting high hydrology. It reached a peak transfer of 1,004 MW on Monday 19 September at 18:00 when wind generation was low and demand was high.
|
