New Zealand:

Contact Energy to Close Natural Gas Power Station as Geothermal Grows (RenewablesBiz)

Dennis Barnes, Chief Executive Officer

"We have been considering the future of our gas-fired power stations for some time. Our decision to close our Otahuhu B station reflects the growth in renewable electricity generation, such as the new Te Mihi geothermal power station, which has effectively replaced Otahuhu in Contact's portfolio" said Dennis Barnes, Contact Energy's Chief Executive.

"The role of thermal plant in New Zealand's electricity future is to support renewable generation and the growth of new technologies. This is best met by fast-start, gas-fired peaking power stations rather than large baseload plants" Mr Barnes said.

On August 8, New Zealand power developer Genesis Energy announced the closure of its two remaining coal units by 2018 because of the rise of geothermal energy.

Read More.......