Manawa Energy launches in Taupō

The Hinemaiaia Power Scheme has received a makeover this week, with owner/operator Trustpower changing its name to Manawa Energy.

To mark the launch, Manawa Energy has announced it will support native planting and restoration projects in each of the regions where it operates hydroelectric power stations.

“Manawa Energy owns and operates the most geographically dispersed set of energy assets of any generator in New Zealand.” says General Manager of Generation, Stephen Fraser. “We’re proud to be a part of communities throughout the country – it’s our point of difference and one of our greatest strengths.”

“In Taupō we are supporting the Hatepe Residents’ Association and landowners Opawa Rangitoto 2C Inc in their restoration efforts around the Hinemaiaia River. This fantastic volunteer group is passionate about the Hinemaiaia and are on a mission to remove the invasive weed Japanese honeysuckle from the area and replant with native podocarps, red beech and kōwhai.”

The name change follows the sale of the company’s mass market retail business along with the Trustpower brand, which took place on 1 May. With the sale complete, Manawa Energy becomes one of Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest electricity generators and renewables developers, responsible for around five percent of the country’s renewable electricity generation.

Mr Fraser said Manawa Energy is focused on delivering the increase in new renewable generation that is needed for the country to meet its climate change commitments through electrification, while continuing to be invested in the success of communities around New Zealand.

The Hinemaiaia Power Scheme has been a part of the Taupō community since 1952.