Building for the Future: The Harapaki Wind Farm
Lloyd kicked off the discussion by sharing the story of the Harapaki wind farm, New Zealand’s second-largest wind farm, recently completed in Napier. The project stands out not just for its scale—41 turbines and 176 megawatts—but for its sustainability achievements:
- 89% of waste diverted from landfill during construction, despite challenges like COVID-19 and severe weather.
- 15,000–20,000 tonnes of carbon savings verified, with more still being quantified.
- 47% of project spend directed locally, supporting jobs and businesses in the region.
- Cultural inclusivity and water resilience, including the creation of an on-site pond that saved millions in costs and reduced truck movements.
- Comprehensive sustainability management, with all greenhouse gas data collected and used for academic research.
Lloyd emphasised that these achievements were possible thanks to a strong sustainability management plan and a commitment to learning and improving with each project.
Why Sustainability Matters
Tina explained that sustainability is at the heart of Meridian’s strategy. The company’s priorities include growing renewable energy generation, helping customers decarbonise, and managing its own emissions. Projects like Harapaki and the upcoming Ruakākā solar and battery site are central to these goals.
She highlighted that how projects are delivered is just as important as what is delivered. The sector is in a growth phase, and Meridian is committed to ensuring that every new project delivers significant net benefits for people and the planet.
Learning and Innovation
A key theme was the importance of learning from each project. Lloyd described how Meridian documents lessons learned and applies them to future projects, raising the bar for sustainability each time. Tina shared examples of creative solutions, such as redesigning the roading network at Harapaki to minimise earth movement and emissions—a practical idea that came from those closest to the work.
Both speakers agreed that unlocking the creativity of teams and sharing stories across the business and industry is vital for progress.
Community and Cultural Engagement
Engagement with mana whenua (local Māori) and the wider community is a cornerstone of Meridian’s approach. Tina spoke about the company’s ongoing cultural journey, including working with local iwi to identify relevant initiatives and having cultural monitors on site to provide guidance.
Lloyd added that Meridian aims to become part of the communities where it operates, not just a contributor. This approach proved invaluable during events like Cyclone Gabrielle, when the team was able to support local recovery efforts directly.
Suppliers and Industry Leadership
Tina highlighted the crucial role of suppliers, whose actions often account for the majority of a project’s impacts. Meridian works closely with suppliers through sustainability forums and regular reporting to ensure everyone is aligned and learning together.
Lloyd noted a significant shift in industry attitudes over the past decade, with sustainability now becoming business as usual. He stressed the importance of getting contracts right from the outset to embed sustainability into every project.
The Bottom Line: People and Purpose
Ultimately, both Tina and Lloyd agreed that people are at the heart of Meridian’s sustainability journey—whether it’s the project teams, local communities, or the wider public. The company’s success is built on collaboration, creativity, and a shared commitment to leaving a positive legacy.
Watch the full Tackling Zero webinar for more insights, and stay tuned for future sessions as Meridian continues to lead the way in sustainable energy.