Mercury commits to Kaiwera Downs wind farm expansion

Mercury NZ says it will proceed with Kaiwera Downs wind farm expansion near Gore, following a long-term agreement signed with New Zealand Aluminium Smelters (NZAS).

Capital expenditure of $486 million for the project brings Mercury’s total FY24 commitment to new renewables to more than $700 million.

The 155MW Kaiwera Downs project will generate enough electricity (525GWh annually) to power the equivalent of about 73,000 homes a year, with the windfarm’s total capacity around 198MW, the second largest in New Zealand, says Mercury.

Construction is expected to start in June 2024 and reach full generation by the end of 2026.

“We’re excited to start another project that will help Aotearoa New Zealand move to a lower-carbon future,” says Mercury’s portfolio executive general manager Phil Gibson.

He says the expansion of the Ngā Tamariki geothermal station is in construction, and the Kaiwaikawe wind farm near Dargaville is nearing a final investment decision.

“New Zealand’s future is brighter because of the role of renewables, and we’re keen to see more renewable generation projects delivered at the scale and pace required to meet New Zealand’s climate change goals,” says Gibson.

“We acknowledge Hokonui Rūnanga, the local community and all stakeholders for their support and we look forward to continuing to work with our delivery partners, Vestas, Higgins, Electronet and all other sub-contractors engaged in this (Kaiwera Downs) project.”