With electricity demand expected to more than double in western Bay of Plenty (WBOP) by 2050, we are releasing a Request for Proposals (RFP) inviting innovative transmission alternatives, known as 'non-transmission solutions (NTS)', to support our Development Plan in the region.
Together with local lines company Powerco, we plan to deliver nine major electricity infrastructure projects in WBOP over the next decade. We are working to coordinate the development of infrastructure that will enhance electricity supply in the most cost-efficient way, and deliver the region’s growing power needs now and into the future.
What are non-transmission solutions?
These are transmission alternatives, such as large-scale batteries and demand response strategies. They can play a key role by shifting electricity demand away from busy ‘peak’ times to quieter ones.
This flexibility reduces how much electricity we need to carry at heavy use times, meaning we can improve the performance of existing transmission infrastructure and reduce or delay the need for additional investment in new generation, upgrades or new lines, keeping costs down for Kiwis.
If successful, responses from this RFP will inform a final decision on the timing for the investment in new grid assets in the WBOP region and demonstrate how coordinated flexibility services can support the national grid in accelerating flexibility and power Aotearoa’s communities and businesses for generations to come.
RFP process
We are inviting innovative providers to propose flexible demand-side and supply-side solutions that can deliver up to 20 MW at Tauranga by winter 2030, and 10 MW at Te Matai by winter 2031. The RFP document can be found here.
Proposals must be submitted electronically via Government Electronic Services (GETS) by 30 June 2026.