Meridian’s proposed Western Bays Solar Farm has taken an important step forward, with the project referred for consideration under the Fast-track consenting process. If approved, it will be one of the largest solar farms in New Zealand.
Western Bays Solar Farm is a proposed development on the western side of Lake Taupō. It will generate up to 420MW (870GWh) of renewable electricity - enough to power 113,000 homes and equivalent to roughly 2% of New Zealand’s current electricity generation.
If approved, the project has the option to include distributed on-site batteries, with a potential combined capacity of 250MW and up to eight hours of storage, providing important short-term back-up for the electricity system.
“New Zealanders want a strong, resilient and affordable electricity system, and ambitious projects like Western Bays can help deliver that,” says Meridian Chief Executive Mike Roan.
“Fast-track requires a lot of work to be done up front, so we’ve been working hard on this project for a couple of years. We’ve taken time to ensure the application is as detailed and well thought-out as possible, based on feedback from iwi and hapū, and the local community.”
If the Western Bays project is approved, it will provide a boost for the local and regional economy through local employment and spending during construction, as well as the creation of permanent roles once the project is operating.
Mike Roan says large-scale developments like Western Bays are possible because of Meridian’s strong balance sheet and extensive investment pipeline.
“It’s through investments like these that we’re delivering the new generation New Zealand needs. New Zealanders rightly have high expectations for the electricity sector, and we’re committed to playing our part.”
Meridian’s development pipeline comprises approximately 8.8 TWh of secured development options and a further 6.5 TWh of advanced prospects – more than a third of New Zealand’s current electricity demand.
Meridian plans to submit its substantive application early next year.
