2026 Programme

REGISTRATION OPEN | TEA AND COFFEE IN THE EXHIBITION SPACE

OPENING

WELCOME FROM THE DAY ONE CHAIR

Fiona Wiseman – sustainable transitions lead, Mercury

LEADERS' PANEL

In 2026, as New Zealand approaches its next general election, the spotlight sharpens on both the Government and the energy sector to deliver secure, affordable, and sustainable energy solutions. Over the past 12 months, a series of significant interventions have been introduced to stabilise the market, reduce volatility, and accelerate the transition to renewables. Yet key questions remain: Have these measures delivered meaningful short- to medium-term results? Who has benefited or been disadvantaged? And what lies ahead on Aotearoa’s journey towards a highly renewable, resilient energy system?

Panelists:

Mike Roan – chief executive officer, Meridian
Malcolm Johns  – chief executive, Genesis
Chantelle Bramley – executive general manager operations, Transpower
David Prentice – chief executive, Gas Industry Co.

Facilitated by: Jen Nolan – director, At Large

INSIGHTS | DEMAND FLEXIBILITY

As New Zealand’s electricity demand grows and the adoption of transition to renewable energy accelerates, demand management is emerging as a central strategy for reducing peak loads regionally and nationally and enhancing grid resilience.

EECA (Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority) is at the forefront of research and initiatives focused on flexible energy use – enabling smarter, more responsive energy in households, across communities, and sectors. Drawing on new nationally significant research about the ‘size of the prize’, real-world trials of the technology, case studies and the latest insights, EECA will present a compelling view of the strategic practical potential for the demand flexibility in a secure, affordable and sustainable energy system.

Dr Marcos Pelenur – chief executive, EECA

EXPRESS EDB UPDATE

As New Zealand accelerates toward a low-carbon future, electricity lines businesses are at the heart of enabling this transformation. Their networks are the backbone of the energy system, ensuring reliable delivery while integrating new technologies like distributed generation, battery storage, and electric vehicles. This session shines a spotlight on a distribution business working to enable the energy transition and secure our low-emissions future.

DIGITAL PLATFORM SOLUTIONS FOR THE ENERGY SECTOR 

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MORNING BREAK AND NETWORKING IN THE EXHIBITION

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STREAM 1 – TECHNOLOGY IN ENERGY | Powered by Salesforce

Introduction from the stream chair
 

STREAM 2 – COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL

Introduction from the stream chair
Ben Young – policy advisor, BusinessNZ Energy Council

STREAM 3 – THE SYSTEM OF TOMORROW

Introduction from the stream chair
 

KEYNOTE | AI AT WORK WITH ORIGIN ENERGY

As infrastructure systems become increasingly complex, artificial intelligence is emerging as a critical tool for ensuring operational quality and empowering human teams. Origin Energy is at the forefront of this transformation.

In this keynote, Origin will share its journey in deploying AI for Automated Quality Management (AQM), revolutionising network operations by automating traditionally manual tasks, and dramatically reducing error rates. The session will also explore Origin’s approach to human enhancement – using AI as a digital co-worker to extend human intelligence, improve decision-making, and unlock new levels of performance across energy and infrastructure systems.

Cameron Geason – general manager – retail operations, Origin Energy

KEYNOTE | COMPARISONS FROM THE ENERGY USERS’ ASSOCIATION OF AUSTRALIA

Commercial and industrial (C&I) energy users in Australia and New Zealand face increasingly complex procurement environments shaped by market volatility, regulatory reform, and the accelerating energy transition.

This session, led by the Energy Users’ Association of Australia (EUAA), explores the contrasting experiences of large energy users in Australia, highlighting key differences in market structure, risk exposure, and procurement strategies – and how these impact business competitiveness.

TE KANAPU | A FUTURE GRID BLUEPRINT

Transpower

PANEL | DECENTRALISED ENERGY | NAVIGATING THE BALANCE

The tension between centralised and localised energy planning in New Zealand reflects broader challenges in balancing national priorities – such as energy security, affordability, and decarbonisation – with local aspirations for resilience, equity, and innovation.

Building on the intent of the Electricity Authority’s 2025 Green Paper, which invites feedback on the opportunities and challenges of a more decentralised electricity system, this session explores perspectives that advocate for a collaborative “and” approach – rather than choosing between centralised or decentralised models.

Facilitated by: Jamie Silk – managing director, Silk Advisory

UNLOCKING POTENTIAL FROM EXISTING ASSETS | TECHNOLOGY, FLEXIBILITY, AND PEOPLE

New Zealand’s energy sector faces a pivotal moment: declining gas availability is eroding firming capacity just as intermittent generation grows. While developers build new assets and retailers push demand flexibility, how do we maximise the potential of what we already have?

This session explores three themes:

• technology and data insights – how Meridian is deploying advanced tools to extract more capacity and flexibility from existing generation assets through its digital generation programme digiGen
• market responsiveness – the insights and operating model needed for these assets to respond to the country’s needs and deliver cheaper energy when it matters most
• people at the centre – why engaging and empowering our workforce is the key to making transformation stick

Yanosh Irani – head of DigiGEN, Meridian Energy

INSIGHTS | ELECTRIFICATION AT NEW ZEALAND STEEL

New Zealand Steel is undertaking a landmark renewable energy and decarbonisation initiative at its Glenbrook steel mill, centred on the installation of an Electric Arc Furnace (EAF). This technology uses electricity to recycle scrap steel, significantly reducing reliance on coal and cutting emissions by up to one million tonnes annually.

The project exemplifies bold ambition, advanced technology, and cross-sector collaboration — enabled by support from the former Government Investment in Decarbonising Industry (GIDI) fund and a flexible off-peak electricity partnership with Contact Energy. Originally scheduled for 2026, commissioning has been accelerated to late 2025.

With substantial environmental and economic benefits anticipated, this session explores the key lessons learned and the potential for applying them across other industrial decarbonisation efforts.

Nicola Payne – general manager business transformation, New Zealand Steel

FIRESIDE CHAT | ENERGY PROCUREMENT INNOVATION

New Zealand’s commercial and industrial (C&I) energy landscape is undergoing rapid transformation. A convergence of economic pressures, environmental imperatives, and technological advancements is reshaping how businesses procure energy. Volatile electricity prices and declining gas supply have heightened exposure to market risk, especially for energy-intensive industries. In response, energy is increasingly viewed as a strategic asset – central to operational resilience and sustainability.

C&I customers are turning to innovative procurement models such as long-term power purchase agreements (PPAs), on-site renewable generation, and energy-as-a-service (EaaS). These approaches offer greater price certainty, supply flexibility, and carbon reduction potential. Join our panel of industry leaders as they share real-world experiences, lessons learned, and forward-looking strategies for navigating energy procurement in New Zealand

Panelists:
Renée Jens – sustainability and energy manager, Dominion Salt
Ryan Santowski – group general manager – energy, waste and water, Visy
Others under invitation

UNLOCKING VALUE WITH FACTOR

As New Zealand’s energy system evolves, batteries are no longer just storage – they’re active players in market operations. This session looks at how battery load shifting products can optimise energy use and open up new revenue streams through ancillary service markets.

Jessica Venning-Bryan – chief executive, Factor

A PERFECT STORM? THE BENEFITS AND RISKS OF ELECTRIFICATION IN A CLIMATE-IMPACTED FUTURE

New Zealand’s electricity system, and those that it serves, will be increasingly exposed to frequent and damaging weather extremes. Vulnerability to these impacts will be heightened over time by our electricity-centric decarbonisation strategy and more dispersed renewable generation. Future electricity systems must be designed for optimal resilience and equity in the face of extreme weather events.

Janet Stephenson – research professor - centre for sustainability, University of Otago

DISRUPTING THE GRID WITH SMART BATTERIES

Aotea Energy is transforming how New Zealanders access and manage electricity. Its vertically integrated smart battery system delivers a fast, affordable, and scalable solution that empowers households to take control of their energy use—without rooftop solar or lifestyle changes. Built entirely in-house, Aotea’s technology stack enables software-driven energy arbitrage and virtual power plant (VPP) readiness, allowing homes to trade energy, respond to market signals, and participate in coordinated grid services.

Tama Toki – founder and chief executive officer, Aotea Energy

LUNCH BREAK AND NETWORKING WITHIN THE EXHIBITION

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STREAM 1 – TECHNOLOGY IN ENERGY | Powered by Salesforce

Welcome back from the stream chair
 

STREAM 2 – POLICY, INNOVATION AND MARKET DESIGN

Introduction from the stream chair
 

STREAM 3 – THE SYSTEM OF TOMORROW

Welcome back from the stream chair
 

CASE STUDY | FARM SOLAR – COMPLEXITY MADE EASY

Farmers across New Zealand are increasingly exploring on-farm solar generation, driven by rising electricity costs – particularly in rural areas where line charges and peak demand penalties are steep – as well as the need for more reliable and sustainable energy solutions.

Despite the clear benefits, adoption is often slowed by high upfront costs, uncertain returns, and limited infrastructure. Many farmers also lack access to clear information, trusted advice, and technical support, which makes the decision-making process more difficult.

To help overcome these challenges, ASB and Prism Earth have partnered to develop a user-friendly solar calculator. This tool guides farmers through estimating system size, costs, providers, and payback period – empowering them to make informed decisions about investing in solar energy.

Matt Lythe – managing director, Prism Earth
Turi McFarlane – head of rural sustainability | rural banking, ASB

FIRESIDE CHAT | ELECTRICITY AUTHORITY

The Electricity Authority (Te Mana Hiko) core mission is to promote a competitive, reliable, and efficient electricity industry for the long-term benefit of consumers. 

This interactive session with the chief executive, will provide the latest insights into the work the Electricity Authority is doing to deliver on its mission.

Sarah Gillies – chief executive, Electricity Authority

INSIGHTS | MĀORI-LED ENERGY OPPORTUNITIES

UNLOCKING FLEXIBILITY: HARNESSING DISTRIBUTED ENERGY FOR SMARTER GRIDS

As electrification accelerates, flexibility is becoming the cornerstone of a resilient energy system. This session explores how distributed energy resources – from batteries to behind-the-meter assets – can be aggregated and optimised to deliver value across wholesale markets, ancillary services, and network support.

HEAVY TRANSPORT ELECTRIFICATION | FRIEND OR FOE

Kwetta and Fonterra have co-developed a high-powered BEV truck charging solution, tailored for Fonterra’s fleet operations and providing a blueprint to scale for future needs. What have they learned, and where to next?

MAESTRO: TURNING EVERYDAY APPLIANCES INTO GRID-RESPONSIVE ASSETS

Lastmyle's Maestro platform unlocks distributed flexible capacity from residential and commercial customers. Using ultra-low-cost, non-invasive hardware, Maestro rapidly integrates high-draw appliances, like heat pumps, space heaters, and EVs, regardless of brand or age. Its proprietary AI engine learns consumption patterns, interprets market and environmental signals, and dynamically shifts energy use, providing real-time grid stability and reducing the need for more poles and wires. Maestro incentivises residential users and delivers commercial benefits without requiring any behavioural change.

Kris Sebro – chief executive officer, Lastmyle

UPDATE | POWER INNOVATION PATHWAY

Launched in late 2024, the Power Innovation Pathway acts as an “open front door” for innovators—whether individuals, companies, or community groups—who want to engage with the Authority and navigate the regulatory landscape more easily. What has been discovered since opening this pathway, what's happened to participants and where to next for the pathway?

CIO FORUM | NAVIGATING CONVERGENCE AND COMPLEXITY

As energy companies evolve into digital-first enterprises, CIOs face the challenge of integrating legacy systems with emerging technologies across trading, retail/customer, and generation/transmission domains. This session will explore how large retailers, gentailers, and distributors are developing IT roadmaps that support convergence, agility, and resilience in a rapidly changing market.
Key themes:

• legacy systems, modernisation and convergence
• platform strategy
• analytics, forecasting, and automation
• vendor/supplier relationships

Panelists:
Bharat Ratanpal – chief information officer, Meridian
Tighe Wall – chief technology officer, Contact
Tracey Saunders – general manager digital transformation, Aurora Energy
Richard Tims – chief digital and data officer, Vector

Facilitated by Salesforce

SPOTLIGHT ON COMPETITION

UPDATE | LNG IMPORTS – LAST RESORT OR STRATEGIC BACKSTOP?

As domestic gas reserves decline and hydro variability challenges electricity reliability, the New Zealand Government has moved to fast-track plans for LNG imports as an “insurance policy” for dry years. This session will review the status of these plans.

MARKET MECHANISMS FOR DRY YEAR RISK

FUSION ENERGY - CLOSER THAN YOU THINK

As New Zealand accelerates toward a decarbonised energy future, fusion is no longer a distant dream – it’s an emerging reality. OpenStar, a Wellington-based fusion energy company, is pioneering a new class of machines based on levitated dipole technology, offering a scalable, modular and economically viable pathway to ensuring global energy independence.

Kiri Lenagh-Glue – senior commercial analyst, OpenStar Technologies

AFTERNOON BREAK AND NETWORKING WITHIN THE EXHIBITION

STREAM 1 - MAIN PLENARY SESSIONS

Welcome back from the MC

STREAM 2 - PPA MASTERCLASS

Hosted by Chapman Tripp

SPOTLIGHT INTERVIEW

POWER PURCHASE AGREEMENTS

Power Purchase Agreements play an important role in project development, by securing long term line of sight to project revenue and unlocking access to project financing. Join the Masterclass to learn more about:

• structures
• trends
• challenges including credit support and firming
• bankability considerations
• future proofing

Lauren Curtayne – partner, Chapman Tripp

SPOTLIGHT INTERVIEW

SPOTLIGHT INTERVIEW | VECTORING TOWARDS SUCCESS

Vector, New Zealand’s largest electricity and gas distributor, has a forward-looking strategy focused on enabling a resilient, decarbonised, and digitally empowered energy future. What are the priorities for the business and what role does it see itself taking in the energy transition?

Chris Blenkiron – group chief executive, Vector

INDUSTRY UPDATE | WORKFORCE ACTION PLAN

In 2025, the Electricity Engineers’ Association (EEA) partnered with Energy Resources Aotearoa to develop a comprehensive national energy workforce report and action plan.

The Re-Energise 2025 initiative updates and expands on the foundational 2022 report, which outlined key recommendations to better align New Zealand’s energy workforce with the demands of a rapidly evolving sector.  New data shows the priorities and calls to action have significantly changed.

This session will highlight some of the key takeouts from the latest evidence-based findings and planned action emerging from the updated report – designed to support a skilled, inclusive, and future-ready energy workforce.

Nicki Sutherland – chief executive, Electricity Engineers’ Association (EEA)
Sheree Long – director, workforce development, Energy Resources Aotearoa

FIRESIDE CHAT | HON SHANE JONES

Hon Shane Jones – Minister for Resources, and Associate Minister for Energy

Facilitated by: Adelia Hallett – editor, Energy News

CLOSING REMARKS FROM THE MC

TRANSPOWER WELCOME TO NETWORKING BREAK

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