Story: Hydroelectricity

Hydro generation, 1924–2007

Hydro generation, 1924–2007

Electricity generation steadily increased through the 20th century, peaking in the early 2000s. The long-term increase in generation from the mid-1950s shown here resulted from the building of large hydro-generation stations. The last of these was the Clyde hydroelectric station, which began operating in 1993. Since then, short-term ups and downs in hydro generation, resulting from rainfall variation, are more apparent. In a period of high rainfall, like 2004, the amount of hydroelectricity generated increases. During dry years, like those from 2005 to 2007, hydroelectricity generation falls.

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How to cite this page:

John E. Martin, 'Hydroelectricity - Hydroelectricity development', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/graph/22451/hydro-generation-1924-2007 (accessed 20 April 2024)

Story by John E. Martin, published 11 Mar 2010