Contact takes next step in geothermal development

29 May 2019
Media statement

Contact takes next step in developing world
class geothermal project at Tauhara
Contact Energy is drilling a series of appraisal wells on the Tauhara geothermal field as it
builds towards a final investment decision for a new power station in 2020.
“We will be working with Tuaropaki Trust-owned MB Century to drill four appraisal wells on
the Tauhara geothermal field, which is a high quality and globally significant resource,” Chief
Executive Dennis Barnes said.
“A potential new geothermal power station at the foot of Tauhara Maunga is New Zealand’s
cheapest and most attractive option for renewable baseload electricity generation,” he said.
Mr Barnes said geothermal energy was important in the transition to a low-carbon future as it
provides baseload generation unlike weather dependant wind, solar or hydro generation.
“Geothermal energy can also provide a low carbon supply of direct heat for industrial
processes and we are working with a number of interested parties on prospective
developments.”
Mr Barnes said Contact was proud of its historic links to the local Taupō community which
goes back more than 60 years to the commissioning of the Wairakei geothermal power
station in 1958.
“Geothermal development and production is economically significant to regional New
Zealand economies. This drilling investment is expected to cost approximately $30 million,
the vast majority of which will be spent in New Zealand.”
The drilling programme will commence in August and complete in early 2020.
– Ends –


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Matthew Forbes
+64 21 072 8578

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About us:
Contact is one of New Zealand’s largest energy retailers and generators. In recent times the
company has invested around $1.7bn in building a flexible, reliable and renewable
generation portfolio which is now more than 80% renewable.

For more about Contact’s position on Climate Change please visit:
https://contact.co.nz/aboutus/sustainability/emissions

Contact – our Geothermal Story
We spend around $55 million
annually in the Taupō region
Contact employs around
150 people in Taupō directly
and many more indirectly
We provide low carbon process
heat for industry and support
tourism in the area
Contact’s geothermal electricity
makes up 8% of New Zealand’s
electricity supply
Te Mihi build contributed
$60 million to the region and
at the peak of construction, over
600 people were involved,
many of them locals
A long history and bright future in the region
The next phase is now underway as we invest in excess of $30 million
for drilling on the Tauhara field
1958
WairakeiOhaakiPoihipiTe M i h iTe HukaBioreactor