12-17 MW Solar Farm Proposed for Hawke's Bay Airport in New Zealand
en.Wedoany.com Reported - Hawke's Bay Airport in New Zealand plans to build a 12-17 MW solar farm on its airport land to enhance energy self-sufficiency and sustainable development for the airport and surrounding areas.
The solar farm is proposed for a 24-hectare site on airport land, located 393 km southeast of Auckland and northwest of the runway, with an expected generating capacity equivalent to the annual electricity consumption of approximately 3,000 households in Hawke's Bay. Airport Chief Executive Nick Flack said the project will help the airport meet the evolving needs of airlines operating there, while supporting the region's transition to a more resilient energy future.
Prior to issuing an Expression of Interest (EOI), Hawke's Bay Airport had jointly assessed a much larger 45 MW solar development with electricity generator-retailer Manawa Energy (now part of Wellington-based Contact Energy), with both parties ultimately deciding not to proceed with that option. Flack said the consensus reached following discussions with Manawa Energy was that it better aligned with the airport's long-term requirements for the airport to continue progressing a smaller, more practically tailored solar farm plan.
No final investment decision has been made on the project yet, but feasibility work has supported advancing the project to the EOI stage to determine the airport's preferred delivery, ownership, and investment models. This work will be undertaken over the next 12 months, running in parallel with consenting, engineering, cultural, and community engagement workstreams. Flack said the key in the next phase is understanding the market's appetite and capability in construction delivery, operations and maintenance, and potential co-investment options.
