Renewable energy sources accounted for 92 percent of New Zealand’s electricity generation during the June 2026 quarter, marking a continued rise in the country’s reliance on sustainable power, government data revealed on Thursday. This marks the third consecutive quarter in which renewables contributed more than 90 percent of the electricity supply, underscoring the impact of favorable hydro inflows and expanded renewable capacity.

The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) reported that overall electricity generation grew by 1.9 percent compared to the same period last year. Within this increase, renewable energy generation rose by 11.4 percent, reflecting stronger output from multiple clean energy sources. Hydro generation climbed 14.7 percent, while geothermal energy reached a record quarterly high of 2,621 gigawatt-hours. Additionally, solar power hit its highest level ever recorded for a June quarter.

According to Amapola Generosa, MBIE’s Domains Manager, the robust performance of renewable sources helped meet the rising electricity demand, substantially reducing the need for traditional fossil fuel-based generation. The data shows that gas-fired electricity production dropped to its lowest June quarter level since 1981. Coal-fired generation similarly decreased, hitting its lowest point for this quarter since 1996.

These developments reflect New Zealand’s ongoing efforts to transition its electricity system towards greater sustainability and lower carbon emissions, leveraging its abundant renewable resources to reduce dependence on coal and gas.