Whakatāne-based Horizon Services has formalised two long-term agreements to partner with Powerco.

These include Horizon Services being appointed to provide a broad range of electricity field services across the Powerco electricity network in the Manawatū and Wairarapa regions, and to provide customer delivery services in the Coromandel and South Waikato regions.

“We are honoured to be appointed by Powerco as a service delivery partner and sincerely thank Powerco for this opportunity,” said Ajay Anand, chief executive of Horizon Energy Group.

“This partnership aligns with our commitment to building a more resilient electricity network – one that can better withstand the impacts of climate change while enabling greater electrification. Through collaboration, we will create lasting value for Powerco and its customers.”

Mr Anand said securing this tender was a testament to their expertise and growing capabilities in the utilities sector.

“As we drive our national expansion strategy forward, this milestone underscores our ability to deliver on complex infrastructure projects.

“I would also like to extend my gratitude to the dedicated teams at Horizon Services and across the Group.

“Their hard work in securing this contract and their ongoing commitment will be instrumental to its successful execution. We are ready for the challenge, and effective April 1, we will establish new depots in the Manawatū/Wairarapa and Thames/Coromandel regions.”

He said the board had approved the necessary investment plan to support the expansion.

“This is one of the most significant opportunities we have secured, reinforcing our purpose: to create enduring value for the communities we serve.”

Powerco general manager electricity Karen Frew said she was looking forward to building a strong partnership with Horizon.

“Horizon's people, customer and community-centric values align strongly with Powerco's tikanga.

“We are pleased to be introducing Horizon to such a significant role on our network and look forward to building a strong partnership.”

Kieron Robinson, Horizon Services general manager – utility services, said Horizon Services had been been actively developing its capability in delivering field services.

“We are delighted to have been selected as a delivery partner to provide our expertise and skillset to Powerco and their customers.

“While our head office remains unashamedly Whakatāne based, we are looking forward to working with Powerco and forging a long-term successful partnership in the regions we have been appointed to.”