Independent review finds improved generation connections process

The Electricity Authority has found Transpower's process for connecting new generation projects to the national grid has improved significantly since Transpower introduced a Connections Management Framework in 2022.

The Authority commissioned an independent review after network connections were identified as one of the main challenges facing generation developers in its 2025 Generation Investment Survey.

"New generation is essential to New Zealand's energy future and to a reliable and resilient electricity system,” says Airihi Mahuika, General Manager of Legal, Monitoring and Compliance.

"The review found the Connections Management Framework Transpower introduced in 2022 has materially improved the connections process and is broadly comparable with international practice.

"That's encouraging because efficient connections processes help support investment in new generation, strengthen security of supply and deliver better outcomes for consumers.”

The review found the current generation connections process is generally effective, efficient and fair, and is working as intended. It has enabled more projects to progress through the connections process, reduced backlogs and helped focus resources on projects that are ready to proceed.

While the process was found to be broadly fit for purpose, the review identified five focus areas for ongoing attention: refining process settings, improving transparency and predictability, strengthening commercial responsiveness, improving performance measurement, and managing future system pressures as demand for connections grows.

"We welcome the review's findings that our process is working well and is broadly fit-for-purpose in a complex and fast-changing environment. As the report notes, we remain focused on continually improving the connections process," says Greg Smith, Transpower’s Chief Financial Officer.

"Enabling efficient grid connections is critical to increasing available generation, providing confidence for businesses to electrify, and ensuring New Zealand has a secure supply of electricity in the long-term.”

The suggested focus areas are matters for Transpower to consider as part of its ongoing management and improvement of the connections process. The Authority is not responsible for implementing the review's findings but will continue to monitor the performance and effectiveness of the connections framework.

The report was prepared by MartinJenkins with input from Transpower and some generation participants.