Meridian Energy reports strong October with increased hydro storage, inflows

Meridian Energy's October 2025 operating report reveals a strong month, with national hydro storage increasing from 110% to 143% of the historical average by November 10, 2025. South Island storage rose to 148% of average, while North Island storage reached 121%. The company's monthly total inflows were 212% of the historical average, with Waiau catchment inflows at 218% of average. Waitaki catchment water storage stood at 151% of historical average by month-end.

Retail sales volumes for October 2025 were 14.6% higher than October 2024, driven by a 29.4% increase in residential sales (including Flick customers), 13.5% in small-medium business, 9.1% in large business, 22.7% in agriculture, and 6.5% in corporate sales. Agricultural volumes were the highest October in five years due to dry winds and increased irrigation. Meridian’s total generation volume was 1,302 GWh, up from 1,107 GWh in October 2024.

National electricity demand in October 2025 was 6.6% higher than October 2024. New Zealand Aluminium Smelters Ltd (NZAS) averaged 567MW, a notable increase from 417MW a year ago when demand response agreements were in effect. The average price Meridian received for its generation was $28.0/MWh, while the average price paid to supply customers was $36.4/MWh.