The Ruakākā BESS delivers 100MW of power output and provides 200MWh of energy storage capacity, supporting the national electricity network at grid scale and providing enough energy to meet the needs of tens of thousands of homes during periods of peak demand. Construction began in early 2023 and was completed in 2025 within the original project budget. The facility officially opened in May 2025.
McKay’s involvement in the project spanned core construction and implementation activities. The company worked alongside battery technology partner Saft and Meridian Energy to meet the technical, logistical, and quality requirements of the build. McKay provided specialist pre-commissioning and commissioning support, ensuring that the system was delivered to exacting standards and contributing to its operational readiness.
The BESS plays a crucial role in enhancing grid stability and resilience by storing excess electricity, including electricity from renewable generation, and discharging it when demand peaks or supply fluctuates. This functionality helps smooth variability in the electricity system and supports the greater integration of renewable energy sources, reinforcing New Zealand’s decarbonisation goals.
The Ruakākā BESS project underscores McKay’s expertise in delivering complex energy infrastructure and demonstrates the company’s capability to support large-scale renewable energy and grid resilience initiatives. The project’s success reflects McKay’s long-standing commitment to innovation, quality delivery, and sustainable outcomes for communities across Aotearoa, New Zealand.
