New Geothermal Projects Strengthen Kawerau's Energy Industry Ahead of TOPP2 Opening

East Coast MP Dana Kirkpatrick said the projects provide more jobs and growth opportunities in the geothermal sector, with Eastland Generations' TOPP2 geothermal plant opening tomorrow.

Earlier this week, $20 million in suspensory loan funding from the Regional Infrastructure Fund was announced for two geothermal projects near Kawerau and Rotomā, positioning the Eastern Bay for growth in the energy sector.

The Eastland Generation projects will develop two medium-sized geothermal power stations, with each plant potentially reaching 25 megawatts. 

Eastland Generation Chief Executive Officer Alice Pettigrew said “With a $10 million loan available for each project, we can now progress with assessing the geothermal resource available at the sites."

Exploration well drilling and testing is planned to begin in the last quarter of 2026. 

“Our team is beginning the next stage of the Taumanu and Kopura Projects alongside the landowners."

The aim is to discover the potential beneath their whenua, while contributing to energy resilience and economic growth, she said. 

“It’s early days, but the sites look promising from the work that's been undertaken so far."

"We can now investigate and analyse the true potential of both sites, and will have more details when these works have been completed," Pettigrew said. 

East Coast MP Dana Kirkpatrick said the joint venture between Eastern Generation and Māori Land Trusts provides a great opportunity for the region. 

"It provides good jobs, well-paying jobs, into an industry which we have excelled in."

The projects would be part of a solution to the need for diversified energy in New Zealand. 

"So if we can provide that and be a centre for that within New Zealand, then that's a great opportunity for us." 

The announcement comes ahead of the opening of a large geothermal operation in Kawerau tomorrow, signalling the region’s growing role in energy production.

The TOPP2 geothermal power plant, is a joint venture between Te Whare Toa, Obayashi, and Eastern Generation.

"That's just one example of how these partnerships and these approaches can work for the betterment, not only for local groups and communities and towns, but also nationally for energy availability and diversification."

The diversification will ensure electricity does not run out in the future, she said.