/ The Result
168kWp of PV and 450 kWh of batteries to supply a 1500Ha Island.
The new off-grid power system went live in June 2025, supplying the island’s 23 customers (including 8 DOC sites) with clean and reliable power.
Sunergise NZ was the design and build contractor.
168 kWp
288 PV modules.
450 kWh
2 x Sungrow BESS
23 Customers
Across the 1500 Ha island.
/ Challenge
A Hauraki Gulf Island Needed Clean and Reliable Power.
Motutapu is a 1,500‑hectare conservation island in Hauraki Gulf, a short ferry ride from downtown Auckland. The island is jointly managed by DOC and Ngāi Tai ki Tāmaki. Motutapu has a rich cultural history and is undergoing a large-scale ecological restoration.
The island was originally powered by a sub-sea cable from Waiheke. When that connection failed, power was supplied first by diesel generation, and later by an early solar and battery hybrid system.
In 2023, the hybrid system failed leaving the island entirely dependent on diesel generators. The Island required a modernised power system capable of delivering reliable, low-carbon energy to the island.
/ Our approach
From Diesel Power to Renewable Energy.
DOC needed an independent expert to monitor the technical works and ensure the delivery of a reliable, high-quality power system. Revolve worked with DOC as the Project Engineer.
/03
Procurement
Revolve reviewed the preferred tenderer’s submission to ensure it met the project requirements. We validated the system design assumptions against the island's current and anticipated energy needs.
/04
Delivery
Revolve worked on behalf of DOC to review and validate the design submissions. We validated workmanship during regular site inspections. At project completion, we thoroughly reviewed the commissioning results and as-built documentation to ensure a robust solution was handed over to the client.
Our final inspection included an aerial thermal survey of the installation. This confirmed the system was operating safely at the PV module and string levels.
Revolve also developed a comprehensive battery fire safety plan that included identified risks, mitigation options, signage requirements and site induction materials.
A Portfolio of Off-Grid Systems
Revolve is working with DOC to help standardise the design, performance and maintenance of hundreds of systems in remote locations throughout NZ.
