A proposed solar farm near Foxton has become the 32nd project and eighth renewable energy project to be granted Fast-track approval by the Government.
Genesis Energy lodged its application in February, with approval taking around three and a half months since the appointment of an independent expert panel.
“The 220 MWp solar farm will generate approximately 345 GWh of renewable electricity annually, enough to power approximately 47,000 homes,” said Infrastructure Minister, Chris Bishop.
“Reliable renewable electricity generation is critical to supporting economic growth and regional resilience.
“New renewable energy projects approved through Fast-track will add more than 990 megawatts of new generation capacity. That’s more than five per cent of New Zealand’s current generation capacity and enough to power approximately 322,000 households annually.”
Energy Minister, Shane Jones said the project will provide around 100 jobs during construction and contribute directly and indirectly to the local economy.
“The project represents a major investment in the region and will help drive regional economic growth while advancing New Zealand’s transition to a more reliable and sustainable energy future,” he said.
More information about the project is available here: Foxton Solar Farm.
