Microgrid Energy $4.3M Boost for Far North Community

As part of New Zealand’s ongoing push toward energy resilience and sustainability, two exciting new projects in the Far North have secured a combined $4.3 million in government funding. These initiatives—centered around solar, wind, and battery storage—are designed to improve energy security for remote communities, particularly in the face of growing climate risks and grid vulnerabilities.

At Shape Energy, we’re passionate about keeping New Zealanders informed on the latest developments in renewable energy, infrastructure, and power system resilience. Here’s a closer look at what’s happening in Northland and why these projects matter for the future of energy in Aotearoa.

The first project, backed by $3 million in funding, is a new solar and wind-powered microgrid planned for Te Kao, a small community near Cape Reinga. Spearheaded by Tū Mai Rā Energy in partnership with Potahi Marae, the project includes a community-scale battery system to store energy and ensure continuous supply—even when the sun isn’t shining or the wind isn’t blowing.

Once complete, the microgrid is expected to generate around 1 gigawatt-hour (GWh) of renewable electricity each year—enough to power up to 100 homes and local businesses. Importantly, the project will be handed over to Potahi Marae for community-led ownership and operation, reinforcing the move toward local energy autonomy.

This microgrid energy approach not only reduces reliance on the national grid, but also empowers the community through lower energy costs and long-term economic benefits.

The second initiative is the Waimamaku Community Solar Resilience Programme, which received $1.3 million in funding to install solar and battery systems across key businesses and community facilities in South Hokianga. This region, like many rural parts of New Zealand, is vulnerable to severe weather and long-duration outages.

By equipping critical infrastructure—such as community halls, local shops, and emergency facilities—with on-site renewable energy and backup power, this programme aims to maintain essential services during emergencies or grid failures. It’s a practical step toward enhancing both climate adaptation and energy equity.

These community energy initiatives reflect a broader shift across Aotearoa: from centralised power models to distributed, locally managed, renewable energy systems. Especially in rural and isolated communities, microgrids and solar resilience systems offer a way to strengthen energy security while reducing emissions and lowering costs.

They also underscore the growing importance of community ownership in the microgrid energy transition. When people have control over their energy resources, they are better positioned to respond to local challenges, create economic opportunities, and build long-term resilience.

While Shape Energy is not directly involved in the Te Kao or Waimamaku projects, we believe these types of initiatives offer valuable insights for the energy sector at large. As infrastructure demands grow and climate pressures intensify, investing in smart, scalable, and sustainable energy solutions is becoming not just beneficial—but essential.

We’re proud to support businesses, iwi, and communities across New Zealand by providing microgrid energy systems that are resilient, renewable, and future-ready—from grid-tied solar solutions and battery storage to industrial power infrastructure and beyond.

New Zealand’s Far North is leading the way with innovative, community-driven energy solutions that could serve as a model for other regions facing similar challenges. Microgrid Energy Projects like these don’t just keep the lights on—they spark new conversations about energy sovereignty, climate resilience, and what the future of power should look like.

Stay tuned to the Shape Energy blog for more updates on renewable energy news, infrastructure innovation, and smart energy solutions shaping New Zealand’s future.

NZ Herald

Shape Energy – Microgrid