Meridian Energy monthly operating report for July 2026

Meridian Energy Limited has released its monthly operating report for the month of July 2026 (attached). Mike Roan said Meridian was well positioned to help meet record monthly demand thanks to strong renewable generation. “New Zealand experienced record July electricity demand, with daily demand records broken multiple times during the month. The sector and Meridian stood up to the test, with carefully managed hydro storage levels supporting increased renewable generation across Meridian’s portfolio.” Key points this month include: In the month to 10 August 2026, national hydro storage decreased from 136% to 128% of historical average. South Island storage decreased to 138% of average and North Island storage decreased to 88% of average by 10 August 2026. Meridian’s July 2026 monthly total inflows were 162% of historical average. Meridian’s Waitaki catchment water storage at the end of July 2026 was 145% of historical average. Snow storage in Meridian’s Waitaki Catchment was 105% of average in early August. Water storage in Meridian’s Waiau catchment was 158% of average at the end of July 2026. July was warm and wet for the South Island and dry for the North Island. Temperatures and rainfall were above average for the South Island, whereas the North Island had average temperatures and well below average rainfall. National electricity demand in July 2026 was a record July level and 1.9% higher than July 2025. Excluding New Zealand Aluminium Smelters Ltd (NZAS), demand is 1.5% higher than July 2025. NZAS average load during July 2026 was 581MW, compared with 552MW a year ago, when Meridian and NZAS had agreed a 50MW demand response reduction from March 2025 to August 2025. Meridian’s retail sales volumes in July 2026 were 2.3% higher than July 2025. Compared to July 2025, segment sales in residential were 13.6% higher, small medium business 3.0% higher, large business 7.4% higher, agriculture 1.8% higher and corporate 7.6% lower. Weekly lake storage updates are available on Meridian’s website. See comparative lake levels at: www.meridianenergy.co.nz/power-stations/lake-levels