The second stage of development is currently being reviewed under the Fast-Track Approval Act, with a panel assigned to oversee the application. This expansion follows the completion of the first stage in 2011, which consisted of 12 turbines.
The proposed expansion seeks to add 44 wind turbines across 54 potential locations, a decrease from the original 88 locations. Additionally, there is a request for an increase in the maximum wind turbine blade tip height to 165m, marking a 20m increase from the current limit.
Known as Puke Kapo Hau, the new wind farm is estimated to cost over $220 million to construct and is projected to generate approximately 549 GWh of electricity annually. This development aims to enhance diversity and security of electricity supply in the region.
Mercury Energy initiated the fast-track process for the wind farm expansion last year, with the application being accepted for referral in November. The panel convener, Jane Borthwick, recently stated that significant progress has been made through engagements with various stakeholders, including territorial authorities and the Department of Conservation.
While some substantive issues remain, such as offsetting, compensation, and monitoring, the Otago Regional Council is prepared to address these matters through site visits and workshops with the applicant. Furthermore, cultural impacts raised by Ōtākou Rūnaka are being taken into consideration during the review process.
The decision timeframe for the application has been set at 60 working days, with the applicant requesting an additional 3 working days for a total of 63 days. This expedited timeline acknowledges the collaborative efforts between the applicant and stakeholders, ensuring clear conditions of consent and thorough consideration of management plan provisions.
The panel overseeing the application comprises Bianca Sullivan as chairwoman, Maria Bartlett, and Andrew Whaley, bringing a wealth of experience in planning, resource management, and engineering to the review process. Mercury Energy’s strategic consents manager, Ryan Piddington, emphasized the positive feedback received from consultation processes with local authorities and agencies.
The panel is scheduled to commence its review on the following Monday, inviting public comments from March 2 to March 30, with the applicant’s response due by April 8. A decision on the application is expected by June 26, marking a significant milestone in the Mahinerangi wind farm expansion.
