80 | ENERGY MB Century T T Karen Phelps True innovation underpins the vision MB Century stands out for its innovation in the energy sector. Few companies boast a heritage as rich as MB Century, a New Zealand-based enterprise that has evolved from government department to world-class energy services provider. Established in 1950 as the Ministry of Works and Development, the organisation has undergone a remarkable metamorphosis over seven decades, consistently adapting to the changing landscape of energy production and environmental sustainability. The company’s journey is a testament to resilience and strategic evolution. From 1987 to 1996, it operated as Works Geothermal Ltd, a fully government-owned department responsible for power development. The late 1990s saw a significant transition when Downers Energy Services Ltd acquired the company, rebranding it as Century Drilling & Energy Services. A pivotal moment came in 2010 when MB Holdings (Oman) purchased the enterprise, introducing a new operational paradigm. However, the most defining shift occurred in 2015 when Tuaropaki Trust acquired MB Century, transforming it into New Zealand’s leading total-solution energy service provider. Today, MB Century stands out for its innovation in the energy sector (geothermal, hydro, hydrogen and water), offering comprehensive, end-to-end services that span drilling, reservoir services, turbine services, engineering, design and project management. The ability to offer a near-comprehensive one-stop-shop for energy solutions sets MB Century apart from competitors, allowing clients a seamless experience from initial engineering concepts through to ongoing maintenance and operations. The company’s versatility allows it to serve not only the energy sector but also diverse industries including dairy, forestry, timber mills and heavy transport. Another aspect that sets MB Century apart is its commitment to sustainability and cultural values. As a Māori-owned company, purchased in 2015 by Tuaropaki Trust, the organisation is deeply rooted in principles of pono (doing the right thing), aroha (showing respect and empathy) and kaitiakitanga (environmental stewardship). It has demonstrated a commitment to being honest, open, and straightforward with a goal to be ‘the team that just gets the job done’, while creating a rewarding workplace that values everyone. MB Century has also strategically aligned itself with six of the United Nations’17 Sustainable Development Goals, focusing on areas such as good health, gender equality, affordable clean energy, economic growth, innovation, and responsible consumption. As part of the Tuaropaki group, MB Century contributes to groundbreaking projects like New Zealand’s first green hydrogen plant, and operates geothermally heated facilities, with its workshops heated using geothermal energy. The company’s holistic approach is underpinned by its clear vision of sustainability that encompasses people, financial performance, ethics, product innovation, safety, and environmental responsibility. By integrating these dimensions, MB Century demonstrates that business success and environmental stewardship are not mutually exclusive. Innovation is not just a buzzword at MB Century, but a fundamental operational philosophy. The company has developed a sophisticated competency management system that extends further than traditional training approaches. By focusing on competency rather than mere training, MB Century ensures its workforce is not just skilled but truly proficient. This commitment to professional development is further evidenced by its status as a professional development partner with Engineering New Zealand and its robust apprenticeship programme. The company invests heavily in nurturing the next generation of energy specialists through structured training courses and mentorship programmes. As the global energy landscape continues to evolve, MB Century is positioning itself at the forefront of the transition towards a low-carbon future. Its work with geothermal power stations, renewable energy projects and innovative technologies like green hydrogen represents a blueprint for sustainable industrial development. From its humble beginnings as a government department to its current status as a pioneering energy-solutions provider, MB Century embodies the spirit of innovation, cultural respect and environmental responsibility. As New Zealand and the world grapple with the challenges of climate change and sustainable development, companies like MB Century offer hope and pragmatic progress. With its rich history, commitment to excellence, and forward-looking vision, MB Century is not just adapting to the future – it is actively shaping it. E & J Contractors are proud to be associated with MB Century
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