Company Structure
Company Formation
Pioneer Energy Group has a rich history dating back to 1924 and the creation of the Otago Central Electric Power Board, later becoming Central Electric. In response to the electricity and generation reforms in 1999, the business was partitioned with the sale of the lines and retail business, enabling the Central Lakes Trust to be established. The generation assets were retained and became known as Pioneer Generation. Following the acquistion of Energy For Industry, the company rebranded in 2016 to Pioneer Energy.
In 2024, Pioneer Energy Renewables was established following the acquisition of the Southern Generation Limited Partnership. As a part of it’s creation, ownership of Pulse Energy moved under the Pioneer Energy Renewables banner. This move was strategically placed to increase efficiencies and synergies between the generation and retail sides of the business.
Our Shareholders
Pioneer Energy Renewables is owned by New Zealand companies Pioneer Energy Group (75.8%) and Buller Energy Limited (24.2%).
Pioneer Energy Group (the Group) was created to enable investment into and ongoing development of sustainable energy solutions. The Group are ultimately owned by the Central Lakes Trust, which provides funding to charitable causes within the Central Lakes region. The Group provides corporate services and frameworks to it’s subsidiaries, including Pioneer Energy Renewables.
Buller Electricity Limited (BEL) is the local electricity distribution company supplying 4,600 consumers located on the northern West Coast of the South Island. The BEL distribution area extends from Meybille Bay in the south (5km north of Punakaiki), to Karamea in the north.
Much of the distribution area covered is rural incorporating significant dairy and beef farming, with main population being based in the Westport township. Coal mining at the Stockton opencast mine continues to be a major employer and electricity consumer in the region.
Established in 1947, the Company is owned by its consumers via the Buller Electric Power Trust.