Construction on a 280MWh New Zealand solar farm project has officially begun at Te Aroha in Waikato, marking a significant milestone for the country’s renewable energy future.
Minister for Energy and Climate Change Simon Watts, joined guests on site for a soil-turning ceremony for the project, a joint venture between Harmony Energy and Clarus company, First Renewables.
The solar farm, which is expected to be commissioned by late 2026, will cover 182 hectares and generate 280 gigawatt hours of electricity per year, enough renewable electricity to supply the equivalent of approximately 35,000 New Zealand homes and businesses.
Clarus general manager for future fuels James Irvine said: “We are pleased to have reached this major milestone in a project that heralds a significant step forward in New Zealand’s pursuit of providing cleaner, home-grown energy.
“At the time of commissioning, it is expected to be New Zealand’s largest solar farm at 202MWp.
“It sets a benchmark for large-scale solar projects, reinforcing the growing role of solar in New Zealand’s renewable energy landscape.”
The solar farm project is supported by a PPA with Meridian Energy, which will purchase 100% of the output for the first 10 years of operation.
“The project demonstrates how government, industry, and financial institutions can work together to meet New Zealand’s energy security and climate goals.
“The Government’s Fast Track Act plays a key role in enabling renewable energy development and accelerating the transition to a low-carbon economy.
“We would like to thank the Te Aroha West community for their support, we could not do this without them. We’re committed to being a good neighbour throughout the construction period and once the solar farm is operational in late-2026.
“We also acknowledge and thank Ngāti Haua and Ngāti Tumutumu for their partnership and for the sharing of knowledge, traditions, and connection to the land with us.”
The construction of the solar farm will create up to 350 full-time equivalent jobs at peak, along with permanent roles once construction is completed.
The project will enhance the biodiversity of the farm with the planting of 100,000 native plants and the restoration of a wetland.
Around 25,000 native plants have already been planted on the boundary of the solar farm site to ensure screen planting is established as early as possible.
Sheep will be farmed on the site, with the solar panels offering shelter and showcasing how agriculture and renewable energy can work together.
The joint venture has appointed Elecnor, a leading global renewable energy engineering procurement and construction contractor, as the lead construction partner to build the Tauhei solar farm.
The project is backed by a syndicated debt facility from ANZ, ASB, BNZ and MUFG Bank.