Meridian welcomes central North Island wind farm decision

Meridian Chief Executive Tim Lusk has welcomed the decision from the Environment Court today approving the company’s proposed Central Wind wind farm development in full.

Project Central Wind would consist of 52 turbines with an estimated combined generating capacity of 120-130 megawatts – enough to power up to 50,000 average homes. It is located across five privately owned rural properties in the central North Island on a site between Waiouru and Taihape.

Mr Lusk says the location has all the attributes Meridian seeks in a wind farm site, with consistently strong winds which will allow the project to operate over a broad range of speeds It is expected the turbines will generate electricity for about 90% of the time.

“Meridian is delighted that the Environment Court has given this project the go-ahead in its entirety. Central Wind will make a significant contribution to security of electricity supply in the North Island using a clean, renewable resource.”

In its decision the Environment Court says it does not consider the proposal would have significant adverse effects on outstanding and significant landscapes and is unlikely to diminish tourism or recreational opportunities in the area.

The Environment Court decision is subject to appeal to the High Court on points of law.