The Electricity Authority has lodged a formal complaint with an independent panel alleging a breach of an industry code by power generator Genesis Energy.

The authority alleged Genesis had failed to comply with dispatch instructions in respect of the gas-driven turbine, Unit 5, at Huntly, and that it failed to immediately advise Transpower of a reason why Huntly Unit 5 was unable to comply with instructions on January 26, 2024.

Dispatch instructions are the instructions the system operator – Transpower – issues to generators to provide generation.

The Electricity Authority (EA) said compliance with dispatch instructions is critical for maintaining the stability, reliability and efficiency of the power system.

“If generation is suddenly unavailable (for example, through an unexpected outage), this can have a flow-on effect such as a localised cascade failure of the power system and regional loss of supply,” the EA said.

The code requires generators to comply with dispatch instructions and to communicate with the system operator if issues arise.

The rulings panel is an independent body that determines breaches of the code and may make appropriate remedial orders under the Electricity Industry Act.

Asked for comment, Genesis said it endeavoured to comply with the Participation Code and had worked closely with the EA regarding the alleged breach.

“While we are disappointed that a complaint has been escalated to the rulings panel, we will continue to work through the process to a resolution,” Genesis said.

Jamie Gray is an Auckland-based journalist, covering the financial markets, the primary sector and energy. He joined the Herald in 2011.