Low hydro lake levels drive increase in non-renewable electricity generation

New data from the Ministry of Business Innovation & Employment (MBIE) shows that between April and June this year, extra coal and gas were needed to generate enough power for New Zealand homes and businesses.

Low hydro lake levels meant electricity generated from renewable sources dropped to 81.3% of total generation, an 8.6% drop compared to same time last year.

For the first time since June 2021, and despite a 50% increase in wind capacity, coal generated more electricity than wind.