New TOPP2 geothermal plant synchronises to NZ grid
Topp2 geothermal power station, NZ (source: Eastland Generation via LinkedIn)
Alexander Richter
11 Dec 2025
Eastland Generation’s 49MW TOPP2 geothermal plant has synchronised to the New Zealand grid, marking a major step toward full operation in early 2026.
New Zealand-based Eastland Generation has announced that its new 49MW geothermal power plant, TOPP2, successfully synchronised to New Zealand’s national grid on 3 December. The milestone marks a major step toward the plant becoming fully operational early in the new year.
TOPP2 is an Ormat binary plant developed in partnership with Ngati T?wharetoa Geothermal Assets Ltd., which will supply geothermal heat under a long-term agreement. The station is the largest geothermal facility in Eastland Generation’s portfolio and will be the biggest customer of Ngati T?wharetoa Geothermal Assets.
Significance of the project
Eastland Generation Chief Executive Alice Pettigrew described the synchronisation as “a big day for us all to have the megawatts flowing”, acknowledging the work of staff, contractors, and partners involved in reaching this stage.
T?wharetoa Group Chief Executive Robbie Watt said the project represents the culmination of a seven-year effort to ensure effective use of the iwi’s geothermal resources. He highlighted the achievement as an example of an iwi-owned and operated entity delivering long-term value for its community.
Ms Pettigrew noted that collaboration with Ngati T?wharetoa Geothermal Assets had been central to the project’s success, and extended appreciation to the Ormat team and contractors for their contribution.
Commissioning continues ahead of full operation
While synchronisation to the grid marks a key commissioning stage, work continues to complete performance tests and handover procedures. Eastland Generation expects TOPP2 to enter full operation early in the new year.
New Zealand’s government has set a target of doubling geothermal energy use by 2040. Once operational, TOPP2 is expected to contribute to national renewable generation capacity and enhance system resilience.
Source: Announcement via LinkedIn
