Nga Awa Purua plant operational, to start in May
Nga Awa Purua geothermal power plant, NZ (source: Mighty River Power)
Alexander Richter
8 Apr 2010
The new Nga Awa Purua Geothermal Power Station, a joint venture between Mighty River Power and the Tauhara North No.2 Trust, became fully operational April 8, 2010.
Reported by Mighty River Power, “the new Nga Awa Purua Geothermal Power Station, a joint venture between Mighty River Power and the Tauhara North No.2 Trust, became fully operational today. The station has now been officially handed over to Mighty River Power, who will operate it on behalf of the Nga Awa Purua joint venture.
The power station was constructed by Sumitomo Corporation in partnership with Fuji Electric, the main suppliers, and Hawkins Construction. It was completed ahead of schedule and with a total capacity of 140MW – up from the 132MW originally planned.
Mighty River Power Chief Executive Doug Heffernan says that Nga Awa Purua, which runs 24/7, will contribute to New Zealand’s long-term security of electricity supply and is a timely addition to the country’s generating capacity leading into winter.
“At 140MW, Nga Awa Purua will produce enough energy to power around 140,000 homes. That’s the equivalent of every home in Taupo, Rotorua, Hamilton and Tauranga,” said Mr Heffernan.
Aroha Campbell, Executive Officer of the Tauhara North No.2 Trust said that the Trust was delighted to see the plant completed.
“Construction of this power station – part of a $430 million project – has been a significant undertaking. The project involved more than 450 contractors and tradespeople, many of whom are locals. On behalf of the Trust I would like to thank the community, our partners and all our owners and beneficiaries for their ongoing support,” said Mrs Campbell.
The official opening of the power station will take place in May.”
Source: Mighty River Power
