2 December 2025
As the energy sector steps up to meet the challenges of decarbonisation and resource efficiency, ETEL is leading the way with its innovative oil regeneration programme—a practical example of circular economy principles in action.
Why Oil Regeneration Matters
Transformers rely on high-quality insulating oil to operate safely and efficiently. Over time, this oil degrades, accumulating moisture and contaminants that reduce its effectiveness. Traditionally, used oil would be discarded creating significant waste and negative environmental impact if not managed correctly.
ETEL’s oil regeneration programme flips this model on its head. Instead of disposing of used oil, ETEL collects it from transformers across New Zealand —using the same trucks that deliver new transformers, reducing transport emissions. The oil is then processed at ETEL’s Auckland regeneration plant through a multi-stage filtration and regeneration process, restoring it to a quality equivalent to virgin oil.
The Impact
Capacity: ETEL’s regeneration plant can process up to 750,000 litres of waste oil per year.
Results: Since launching the programme, ETEL has recovered and recycled over 120,000 litres of oil,
Environmental Benefits: This approach reduces waste, cuts down on the need for new oil, and lowers transport emissions—helping to close the loop and power a cleaner energy future.
Quality Assurance: Regenerated oil samples are independently tested to ensure they meet stringent specifications, giving customers confidence in both performance and sustainability.
Supporting a Circular Economy
By regenerating and reusing transformer oil, ETEL is not only reducing its own environmental footprint but also supporting customers’ sustainability goals. This initiative is part of a broader commitment to embedding circular economy thinking across the business—making better use of resources, minimising waste, and designing for the future.
As GM Operations Ryan Datson explains, “This is a win-win-win for ETEL, for our customers, and for the environment. It’s central to our mission for a more sustainable energy future for New Zealand and internationally.”
Watch the ETEL Oil Regeneration Programme video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4UqqfgvwLbo
Read the Unison Group Sustainability Report:
https://www.unison.co.nz/tell-me-about/unison-group/publications-disclosures/sustainability-report/
