Briefing for the Industry Exercise 2026

The Electricity Authority Te Mana Hiko and Transpower are holding a briefing to help organisations across the sector prepare for the Industry Exercise 2026, which will simulate a space weather event.

The briefing on Tuesday 12 May 1-2.30pm will cover:

• how the exercise will run
• what this means for different roles
• how to access and use the social media simulator
• how to complete the workbooks

Tim Archer, Crisis Communications Specialist at RiskLogic, will also share practical guidance to help organisations prepare their communications.

This year’s Industry Exercise on 20-21 May will simulate a major space weather event. While the scenario is hypothetical, it reflects a real risk for New Zealand’s electricity system. Space weather could disrupt electricity assets, system operations and communications, leading to power outages.

The focus on space weather is important as the sun is currently at solar maximum, the most active stage in its 11-year cycle. Increased solar activity is expected to continue into 2027, increasing both the likelihood and potential severity of space weather events.

Preparation matters. We are pleased to see so many organisations taking part this year. The exercise is a valuable opportunity to practise operational and communications processes, understand System Operator arrangements, and strengthen how we work together so we are all well-prepared should a high-impact event occur.

There is still time to register, and we encourage all electricity market participants to get involved.

Register for the Industry Exercise