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Impact of August cold snap on electricity consumption
Media release: Latest data shows impact of August cold snap on electricity consumption
The Electricity Authority’s latest data shows the major impact seasons have on New Zealand’s electricity consumption. The chart below compares electricity consumption on 8 February and 8 August 2016.
Consumption peaked as temperatures took a dive on 8 August, with national electricity consumption for the day hitting a peak of 6,451 MW. By way of contrast, consumption hit a peak of 4,614 MW on 8 February 2016.
Peak demand drives investment in costly infrastructure, particularly transmission and peaking generation. The highest ever daily peak experienced in New Zealand was 7,080 MW which occurred on 15 August 2011 during a widespread snow storm.
Comparison of national
electricity consumption in summer and winter
2016
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