Meridian Energy’s First Solar Farm in New Zealand

Meridian Energy to Construct First Major Solar Project in New Zealand

Meridian Energy, the largest electricity generator in Aotearoa New Zealand, has revealed plans to move forward with the development of its inaugural significant solar venture. The 130-megawatt Ruakākā solar farm will be situated south of Whangārei on the western side of the North Island. Construction is scheduled to commence in August following the Meridian Energy board’s final investment decision earlier this week.

The solar farm will be positioned adjacent to Meridian’s 100MW Ruakākā Battery Energy Storage System, which is nearing completion and is anticipated to be fully operational next month. This combined setup will form the Ruakākā Energy Park, enhancing energy resilience in the Northland region, as highlighted by Neal Barclay, Meridian’s CEO.

Ruakākā Solar Farm Details

Meridian Energy envisions the Ruakākā Solar Farm to start generating power in the fourth quarter of 2026, with full completion expected by the first quarter of 2027. The project, valued at $NZ227 million ($A206 million), aims to achieve a levelized cost of energy of $NZ97/MWh and a capacity factor of 20.4 per cent, aligning with optimistic forecasts for solar farms in New Zealand.

Meridian’s decision to progress with the Ruakākā Solar Farm comes on the back of significant milestones in the company’s development roadmap. Recent achievements include obtaining consent for the 90MW Mt Munro Wind Farm near Eketāhuna and announcing a joint venture with Nova Energy Limited to establish the 400MW Te Rahui Solar Farm at Rangitāiki.

Development Pipeline and Future Plans

Neal Barclay expressed enthusiasm about the company’s development pipeline, citing a planned $3 billion investment until 2030, with $1 billion earmarked for capital expenditure this year. Meridian Energy’s robust in-house construction team is well-equipped to handle multiple projects concurrently, ensuring the successful implementation of these ventures to bolster clean energy production across Aotearoa.

Joshua S. Hill, a seasoned journalist with a focus on climate change, clean technology, and electric vehicles, provided insights into Meridian Energy’s progressive initiatives. With a wealth of experience in reporting on sustainable technologies, Hill emphasised the company’s commitment to advancing renewable energy solutions.