Christchurch 111ha solar farm green lit

Ethical Power, working in partnership with KeaX, says it has gained planning consent from the Selwyn District Council for its 65MW Buckleys Road solar and battery energy storage system (BESS) near Christchurch.

Buckleys Road Solar Farm is a 104-ha solar array across a 111-ha site with an operational generating capacity of 100GWh – enough to power about 11,000 homes.

The solar part will comprise 140,000 single axis tracking modules and 13 inverters across and a co-located BESS.

“Buckleys Road will undoubtedly be one of the stellar solar projects in New Zealand,” says Ethical Power Development New Zealand country manager Nick Keeler.

“We’re delighted with the council’s positive decision and keen to see the project go live as soon as possible.

“It’s been a pleasure working on this development with KeaX, combining Ethical Power’s international solar and BESS expertise with KeaX’s insights and local knowledge.”

KeaX director Campbell McMath says it’s encouraging to see the council supporting new, and much needed, renewable energy projects in the area, realising the possibilities of land diversification.

“This supports Canterbury’s need for greater generation and provides farmers with a stable income.”

Ethical Power and KeaX consulted Te Taumutu Runanga on the preservation of the land’s cultural values in preparing for the planning submission.

The planning consent statement included a positive review of the cultural considerations, while the design incorporates a Maori Wähi Taonga Site, says Ethical Power.

The review concluded the project would not detract from the area’s rural character, thanks to the existing and proposed shelterbelts and proposed landscaping included in the development plan, it adds.

The land, used for cattle grazing, will continue to support primary land-based production through sheep grazing once the site becomes operational, says Ethical Power.

The proposed Buckleys Road site is adjacent to the Brookside 66kV substation, and with close access to the grid and Christchurch Ethical Power says the project will maximise the power network’s effective use.