First solar farm approved under Fast-track Act

A proposed Canterbury solar farm has become the first solar project to receive approval under the Government’s Fast-track Approvals Act, paving the way for a 370GWh renewable energy development.

The Haldon Solar Farm, planneed by Lodestone Energy, will be built near Lake Benmore, about 14km southeast of Twizel, and is expected to generate enough electricity to power around 45,000 homes each year.

The project is the 29th approved under the Fast-track process and the seventh renewable energy project to receive consent. Lodestone lodged its application in September 2025, with approval granted around eight months after an independent expert panel was appointed.

“Reliable renewable electricity generation is critical to supporting economic growth and regional resilience,” Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop says.

“Seven renewable projects have been approved so far under the Fast-track process, including four new projects: Waitaha Hydro, Southland Wind Farm, Mahinerangi Wind Farm, and Haldon Solar. Together, these approvals will add more than 770 megawatts of new generation capacity, representing more than 5 per cent of New Zealand’s current generation capacity.”

Regional Development Minister Shane Jones says the project will deliver benefits beyond electricity generation.

“The project represents a major investment in Canterbury and will help drive regional economic growth while advancing New Zealand’s transition to a more reliable and sustainable energy future.

“Sustainable electricity generation is playing an increasingly important role in New Zealand. More energy production will help businesses grow, attract investment, strengthens regional economies, and creates jobs and opportunities for local communities,” Jones says.

Energy Minister Simeon Brown says accelerating approvals is helping unlock investment in new generation.

“Fast-tracking the consenting process to encourage investment in new energy generation is a key part of that approach,” says Brown.

“Renewable energy projects like this play an important role in improving New Zealand’s energy security and delivering a more resilient and reliable electricity system.”