Glenbrook ENERGY STORAGE PROJECT
The Project
The Glenbrook Energy Storage Project is a 280 MW utility-scale Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) located approximately one hour south of Auckland, near the NZ Steel Mill. Designed to operate for 40 years, the project will deliver flexible capacity to New Zealand’s electricity grid and help support decarbonisation.
The site spans approximately 7.5 hectares of rural-zoned land currently used for rotational cropping and sheep grazing. The project’s location adjacent to NZ Steel ensures a highly strategic setting, both for grid integration and industrial energy use. The land is clear and gently sloping, providing ideal construction conditions and minimal environmental constraints.
The BESS will connect to the Transpower 33 kV substation through a new substation interface, making efficient use of existing infrastructure in the area. This grid connection will allow the project to absorb and discharge energy at scale, supporting grid stability, renewables integration, and system resilience.
The BESS will have a discharge capacity of 280 MW, with a total energy capacity between 560 and 1,020 MWh, supported by approximately 68 inverters. The system will be capable of delivering stored energy at critical times of demand or grid stress.
Construction is expected to take up to 12 months, creating approximately 50 construction jobs and establishing 10 operations and maintenance roles once operational.
Key milestones have already been achieved, including land secured in Q1 2025, with both grid approval and resource consent expected to be finalised by Q3 2026. NZCE is targeting Ready-to-Build (RTB) status by Q4 2026. In preparation for this, NZCE has appointed grid and planning consultants, and both workstreams are scheduled to commence in Q3/Q4 2025.
With its prime location near major energy infrastructure, large-scale grid capacity, and commitment to continued rural land use, the Glenbrook Energy Storage Project is a key part of NZCE’s long-term strategy to support New Zealand’s clean energy future. NZCE welcomes collaboration and continued engagement with stakeholders as the project advances toward delivery.
Why has this site been selected
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The main factor for identifying and choosing the site is the proximity to the grid and the major electrical load of the Steel Mill. The site is within close proximity of the substation which is the point of connection. This allows for a firm and reliable connection to the National Grid.
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The site is currently rurual and used for cropping. Some recontouring of the site will be necessary for the project
Limited impact on native vegetation / biodiversity. All existing native vegetation on site is intended to be retained.
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Initial research suggests support for renewable energy projects. This allows for us to ensure we develop the most suitable project possible in conjunction with the key stakeholders.
Benefits of the Project
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This project will store energy for use in the local area the Steel Mill and the National Grid. This will result in increased energy security for the local area and wider network.
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During construction we anticipate over 100 jobs being created for each project, ranging from electrical work to security and groundworks.
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We are actively encouraging local business to get in touch with us to register their interest in the project so we can get as many local companies involved as possible.
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A number of jobs will be created such as maintenance, general testing and inspecting of electrics and general site maintenance and upkeep.
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Will be available to local schools and community groups wishing to visit to understand more about the project and what is involved.
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Will be in place to explain to the local are and any passers-by what the project details are.