UK storage developer Harmony Energy has entered into a joint venture to co-develop and own a 150MW solar farm in New Zealand.
Harmony Energy has entered a joint venture with First Renewables Limited, part of New Zealand energy group Clarus (formerly Firstgas Group) to develop and own the Tauhei solar farm.
At the time of commissioning in 2026, it is expected to be New Zealand’s largest solar farm and will be constructed on 182 hectares near Te Aroha in the North Island.
Subject to obtaining all necessary consents and approvals, the solar farm’s approximately 330,000 solar panels will generate over 270 GWh per year.
The project qualified for fast-track consenting via the COVID-19 Recovery (Fast-Track Consenting) Act 2020 because of its economic and environmental benefits, gaining consent in October 2022.
Since that time, the project has been further developed, with a final investment decision expected later this year, pending regulatory approvals.
Following this, construction is also expected to commence this year.
Harmony Energy Director Pete Grogan said: “We are thrilled to have entered a partnership with First Renewables, ensuring that New Zealand’s largest solar farm has the backing of experienced renewable energy companies.
“The Tauhei Solar Farm will be a project that the Waikato and the whole of New Zealand can be proud of.
“It will also create opportunities for local businesses, employment and significant biodiversity gains, as well as being able to generate energy alongside continued farming production.”
Clarus GM Future Fuels, James Irvine said: “Utility-scale solar generation presents a significant, complimentary, and largely untapped source of renewable energy in New Zealand, as proven in many markets overseas.
“This project is an opportunity for us to build on our desire to deliver renewable energy to meet the needs of energy consumers.”