In a major step toward strengthening New Zealand’s energy resilience, Saft and Genesis Energy Limited have announced a 200 MWh expansion of the battery energy storage system (BESS) at Huntly Power Station.
The agreement marks the second phase of the project, building on the initial 100 MW / 200 MWh installation. Once completed, the Huntly BESS will reach a total capacity of 400 MWh, positioning it among the largest battery storage facilities in the country. Commissioning of the expanded system is scheduled for 2028.
Located on New Zealand’s North Island, the Huntly site is already a critical component of the national grid, co-located with a 1.2 GW gas and coal-fired power station. The addition of large-scale battery storage is expected to enhance grid stability by providing flexibility and firming capacity as the country increases its reliance on renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, and hydropower.
Genesis Energy said the project aligns with its long-term “Gen35” strategy, which prioritizes energy storage as a key tool for managing supply variability, price fluctuations, and potential disruptions. Battery systems also help optimize thermal generation by reducing inefficient operating modes and lowering overall gas consumption.
Saft, a subsidiary of TotalEnergies, will supply lithium-ion battery containers along with integrated power conversion and control systems for the expansion. The company previously delivered the first stage of the project, earning confidence from Genesis for the follow-on contract.
Genesis Chief Operating Officer Tracey Hickman noted that the successful delivery of stage one played a key role in selecting Saft again, highlighting the importance of reliable partners in advancing New Zealand’s renewable energy transition.
The expansion comes as New Zealand continues to pursue ambitious climate goals, including reducing net carbon emissions to 50 percent below 2005 levels by 2030 and achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 under national legislation.
