A New Power Generation Era for Aotearoa: Turning Challenge Into Opportunity

Recent reports from Transpower warn of a gas decline; New Zealand’s national grid operator, highlight a significant decline in natural gas production from key domestic fields such as Maui and Pohokura. These two gasfields have long played a vital role in supporting the electricity grid—particularly during peak winter demand and periods of low hydro generation. However, recent data shows that output is falling faster than anticipated, raising concerns about the ongoing reliability of gas-fired power generation.

This growing gap between energy supply and peak demand has prompted Transpower to issue a forward-looking warning: without new generation coming online soon, New Zealand could face tighter electricity margins as early as winter 2026.

At Shape Energy, we work with organisations across Aotearoa to turn energy uncertainty into opportunity. From cutting-edge solar and battery systems to energy optimisation strategies, our solutions are designed to reduce emissions, increase independence, and future-proof energy supply.

Here’s how we’re helping create a brighter energy future:

1. Local Energy, Global Impact

We help businesses and communities invest in distributed energy solutions—like commercial solar, on-site batteries and microgrids—that reduce reliance on fossil fuels while creating long-term cost savings. Clean energy doesn’t just protect the environment—it boosts energy security and puts power in your hands.

2. Smart Storage for Smart Business

With traditional generation becoming less predictable, battery storage has never been more important. We design and deploy intelligent battery systems that store excess energy, reduce peak usage costs, and ensure continuity during outages or peak demand periods.

3. Peak Demand, Smart Response

As energy demand grows, being flexible is key. Our demand-response programmes enable large energy users to reduce or shift consumption during high-cost periods—earning savings and supporting grid stability. It’s a win-win for business and the environment.

4. Accelerating Clean Generation

We work alongside councils, iwi and developers to fast-track renewable projects and streamline the energy transition. With the right tools and partnerships, we can bring more clean generation online faster—creating jobs, reducing emissions, and building national resilience.

Yes, Aotearoa’s energy system is changing—but we believe it’s for the better. The decline in gas generation is simply a signal that it’s time to invest in what’s next. Renewable energy technologies are more accessible, more affordable, and more effective than ever.

At Shape Energy, we’re committed to helping businesses and communities lead the way—creating energy systems that are low-carbon, high-performing, and future-ready.

Whether you’re looking to cut energy costs, lower your emissions, or take control of your own energy supply, now is the time to act.

By investing in renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydro—complemented by smart battery storage and demand-response technologies—we can create a flexible, resilient grid that works for everyone. These distributed energy resources not only reduce reliance on fossil fuels, but also empower communities and businesses to take greater control of their energy use, reduce their emissions, and lower long-term costs.

Moreover, decentralised renewable systems offer unique advantages:

• Faster deployment timelines compared to traditional large-scale generation projects.

• Improved energy resilience through local generation and storage.

• Reduced transmission losses and congestion on the national grid.

• Community ownership and investment opportunities that keep value local.

New Zealand’s energy future doesn’t have to be defined by declining gas fields. It can instead be shaped by innovation, collaboration, and a bold commitment to sustainability.

NZ Herald