Powerco updates map for large-scale solar and renewable generation projects

Powerco has updated its utility-scale distributed generation hosting capacity map, giving renewable generation companies clearer information about where capacity exists to inject electricity into its network.   

Click here to view the map  

The publicly available map helps developers see the estimated capacity available on Powerco’s high-voltage network for large-scale distributed generation, such as solar farms. 

The latest update adds two important new pieces of information: 

• Export congestion: The map now highlights areas where there may be limits on how much electricity can be exported to the network. This gives developers an early indication of where their projects may face constraints. 
• Approved future connections: The map now includes the expected impact of proposed distributed generation projects that have reached final approval and are expected to connect in the next few years. 

Together, these updates give developers a clearer picture of where network capacity may be available, where constraints already exist, and how approved projects may affect future capacity. 

Ryno Verster, Powerco DSO Programme Director, says better visibility of network capacity will become increasingly important as more renewable generation connects to the electricity system. 
 
“As more solar, batteries and other distributed energy resources connect to our network, we need to become smarter about how we manage the capacity we already have and give customers better information to make their own investment decisions. 

“This map is a great example of that in action. It gives developers greater visibility of opportunities and constraints on our network and supports the broader distribution system operator (DSO) transformation we're accelerating.” 

The map is intended as an early planning tool and shows the estimated remaining capacity of Powerco’s high-voltage network to accept additional distributed generation. The map covers the high voltage network only and is intended for utility scale generators doing early feasibility work and site selection.