Guidance for intermittent generators wishing to use an alternative to the centralised forecast

The Electricity Authority is introducing a new hybrid forecasting arrangement to improve the accuracy of intermittent generation forecasts and offers.

The new arrangement will take effect from 31 July 2025 and will provide a centralised forecast for each intermittent generating site.

Intermittent generators can use an alternative to the centralised forecast, if they meet minimum performance standards, but need to obtain the Authority’s approval to do so.

Approval process

Intermittent generators wishing to use an alternative forecast need to:

• Complete this application form
• Follow the instructions to submit ‘test’ forecasts of generation potential based on its own forecast for a minimum of eight weeks
• Allow at least two weeks for the Authority to analyse the accuracy of ‘test’ forecasts of generation potential, and notify the generator of its decision.

This guidance explains the process and requirements.

We will use a suite of metrics to assess whether an intermittent generator’s mock forecasts of generation potential meet the minimum performance standards.

For any queries, contact forecasting@ea.govt.nz