The 134ha site is 2km east of Morrinsville and 600m south of the Piako substation, where the solar farm would connect to the national grid.<\/p>\n
The consent also allows for electricity storage in the future through a distributed battery energy storage system.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe know that New Zealanders want reliable and affordable electricity supply, and that\u2019s what makes developments like this so important,\u201d Roan said. <\/p>\n
\u201cHarnessing more electricity from the sun means we can hold more water in our hydro lakes for when it\u2019s needed most.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cMeridian has a big role to play in building the new capacity New Zealanders are asking for, which is why we\u2019re planning to invest around $3 billion through to 2030 to add more new renewable energy projects, further strengthen New Zealand\u2019s electricity supply, and stay ahead of the growing demand for electricity.\u201d<\/p>\n
Morrinsville Solar Farm is expected to generate in excess of 100 local construction jobs and contribute tens of millions of dollars in local spend if it is built.<\/p>\n
Following construction, around four to five permanent jobs are expected to be created.<\/p>\n
In line with Meridian\u2019s sustainability commitments, the project will enhance existing habitats and waterways, and add new native riparian planting as part of the project.<\/p>\n