As part of a plan to meet Queenstown’s long-term electricity needs, Transpower, Aurora Energy and PowerNet today announced the preferred transmission option for the region is a new 110 kV electricity line from Cromwell. This is part of a broader, coordinated programme of work – Energising Queenstown – which also includes local electricity network upgrades and the integration of more rooftop solar, batteries and smart technology into the region’s power system.

The announcement follows two years of research, analysis and collaboration with key groups throughout the region to understand future electricity demand and potential solutions, and a public consultation in 2025 on four transmission line options.

Aurora Energy Chief Executive Richard Fletcher said feedback highlighted the region’s ambition and drive to innovate, as well as the importance to the local community of considering a mix of energy investments to work together to meet growing electricity demand.

“We heard a range of views with many supporting a new 110 kV line from Cromwell. People felt this was a good, balanced choice because it’s cost-effective and can grow with Queenstown. We also heard interest in adding more rooftop solar in the region, smart technology and pricing that could move some electricity use to off-peak times, and spreading out upgrades over time.

“We have listened carefully to the feedback and will continue to engage with local businesses, residents and other interested parties as we move forward. Aurora Energy and PowerNet are progressing work to ensure rooftop solar and other flexible electricity technology is well integrated into the local network, and it’s wise for Transpower to look into the design of a new transmission line now.”

Transpower’s Executive General Manager Grid Development Matt Webb said Queenstown’s vision for a thriving, resilient and low-carbon future, along with growth in the region, confirmed it was important to start the investigation stage for a new line soon, in parallel with the solar and battery workstreams.

“Demand for electricity is continuing to increase in line with our expectations. Work is already underway to safely maximise what the existing electricity infrastructure can deliver, but to meet the demand we expect to see in ten years’ time – particularly during winter, the region will need investment in transmission infrastructure,” he said.

Announcing a preferred option does not mean a route or corridor has been finalised. “Large-scale transmission projects like this generally take five to eight years to investigate, consent, plan and deliver. We’ll spend around three years working through the investigation phase, which involves a range of environmental, geotechnical and electrical studies. Transpower is committed to engaging with a wide range of stakeholders including the local community and Ngāi Tahu through the next phase to understand and work through the opportunities and local impacts.”

PowerNet Chief Executive Paul Blue said that along with local electricity network investment, the additional security a new line offers will mean growth can happen with confidence.

“An additional transmission line means there’s much less risk of unplanned outages on the coldest, busiest winter days or when transmission network maintenance is needed,” he said.

“We all want to see Queenstown thrive. That means planning ahead and being transparent as we evaluate the solutions and trade-offs available. We know people and businesses rely on having a power supply that meets their needs. Wise investment now is critical to ensuring Queenstown can continue to innovate and succeed, rather than facing a future that is hamstrung by insufficient infrastructure.”

More information is available on www.energisingqueenstown.co.nz