Wells is proud to stand at the forefront of New Zealand’s renewable energy evolution, playing a critical role in two of the country’s most significant geothermal developments – Contact Energy’s Tauhara Geothermal Power Station and the Eastland Generation TOPP2 geothermal expansion in Kawarau.
At Tauhara, Wells served as the main electrical controls and instrumentation contractor on the main powerhouse and associated facilities for the multimillion-dollar project. The contract duration was 18 months and comprised a team of 135 skilled trades, engineers and support staff.
Tauhara adds 174 megawatts of renewable capacity to the national grid – enough to power around 200,000 homes – and Wells was instrumental in ensuring the plant’s reliable, high‑performance operation.
Over the course of the project, Wells led the construction and installation of a 220-kilovolt transformer, and the extensive 3.3-kilovolt and 11-kilovolt reticulation systems that support the plant’s operations. The electrical scope was significant: more than 41,000 metres of power cabling, 131,000 metres of control cabling, and 4000 metres of cable tray were installed to power up and automate the facility. The team also delivered 75 metres of high-capacity bus duct, and installed more than 800 precision instruments essential to plant monitoring and performance.
Simultaneously, Wells is demonstrating its geothermal capability and leadership at TOPP2, where they are currently supporting Eastland Generations’ expansion of the geothermal power station at Kawarau – twice the size of TOPP1. As with Tauhara, Wells is delivering major electrical controls and instrumentation systems, contributing to 49 megawatts of base load capacity for the North Island – a project vital to regional energy security and sustainability.
‘These projects are transformational – not just for the regions they serve, but for the role renewable geothermal energy plays in New Zealand’s energy future,’ says Wells CEO Justin Peterson. ‘We’re incredibly proud to be trusted partners on both Tauhara and TOPP2.’
Wells, a nationwide business with more than 41 years’ experience, has a proven track record in other power generation projects, showcasing its ability to deliver complex infrastructure with precision, safety, and innovation. The company’s broader portfolio of high‑profile work includes the new energy centre at Taranaki Base Hospital – a critical infrastructure project that will modernise the hospital’s energy systems. Additionally, Wells is currently supporting key upgrades at Huntly Power Station, where the team is providing specialised electrical services to ensure continuity and resilience in the national grid.
As New Zealand continues its journey to decarbonise its electricity system, Wells is committed to powering that progress – one project, one partnership and one megawatt at a time.