New Zealand
Overview
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| SSS Relevance | ⭐⭐⭐ High |
| Market Type | Liberalized |
| Key Clean Resources | Hydro (55-60%), Geothermal (18%), Wind (7%) |
| EAC System | NZ Energy Certificates |
| Grid Carbon Intensity | ~100-120 gCO2/kWh |
New Zealand has one of the world's cleanest electricity grids, with ~85% renewable generation from hydro, geothermal, and wind. No nuclear power (legally prohibited since 1987).
SSS Relevance
⭐⭐⭐ High — New Zealand offers good SSS potential due to:
- Massive hydro (55-60% of generation)
- Significant geothermal (~18% of generation — unique resource)
- No nuclear (prohibited by law)
- ~85% renewable grid — extremely clean residual mix
SSS-Eligible Resources
| Resource Type | Capacity/Output | SSS Classification |
|---|---|---|
| Nuclear | 0 MW (prohibited) | ❌ Not available |
| Hydro | ~5.4 GW, 55-60% | ⚠️ Depends on certificate status |
| Geothermal | ~1 GW, ~18% | ⚠️ Depends on certificate status |
Major Hydro:
- Manapouri (850 MW), Benmore (540 MW), Clyde (464 MW)
- Numerous other South Island schemes
Market Structure
Regulator: Electricity Authority
Market Model: Liberalized wholesale market; retail competition.
Grid Operator: Transpower
Major Generators:
- Meridian Energy (hydro), Contact Energy, Genesis Energy, Mercury
Clean Energy Policy
| Policy | Status |
|---|---|
| Net Zero Target | 2050 |
| 100% Renewable Electricity | 2030 target (aspirational) |
| Nuclear Ban | Since 1987 (New Zealand Nuclear Free Zone Act) |
EAC Infrastructure
Primary System: NZ Energy Certificates
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Scope | Renewables |
| Market | Domestic focus |
Emissions Factors
| Source | Value | Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| NZ Grid Average | ~100-120 gCO2/kWh | Location-based Scope 2 |
| Residual Mix | Very low | Market-based Scope 2 |