Two major solar energy developments in Otago are taking very different paths, one opting for a government fast-track route, the other choosing the traditional resource consent process amid significant public scrutiny.
Black Point Solar Farm, proposed by Black Point Solar Ltd, is among 149 projects included under the Fast-track Approvals Act, passed into law in December. The company plans to build the solar farm on a 240ha sheep and deer property about 5km from Duntroon in North Otago. If approved, the farm would consist of 380,000 solar panels — enough to power about 38,000 homes.
"As part of the project, sheep or other compatible farming will continue under and around the solar panels, maintaining the productive potential of the site," the application reads.
Construction would begin once consent and financing were secured, completion being expected within two years.
Initial discussions have been held with Network Waitaki, Transpower, the Waitaki District Council, local MP Miles Anderson and neighbouring property owners. However, an Environment Protection Authority Fast-track spokesperson said yesterday Black Point Solar Farm had not yet lodged a substantive fast-track application.
No timeline has been set for lodging the full application.
Meanwhile, further inland in Central Otago, Helios Energy is pursuing a 660ha solar farm in the Maniototo between Naseby and Ranfurly. Helios announced the project in October 2023 but chose to forgo the fast-track option in favour of the conventional consent process. A Central Otago District Council hearing is scheduled for August 19-21 in Ranfurly.
The original proposal included a 300MW installation with 550,810 solar panels aligned in sun-tracking rows and a battery energy-storage system (BESS).
However, in May, Helios dropped the battery component following community concerns about fire risks and insufficient information about suppression systems. Construction is now delayed until at least 2029.
Community response has been mixed. Of the 179 submissions received, 23 were in favour and 12 were neutral. The remaining 144 opposed the development, with concerns ranging from fire safety and noise pollution to glint and glare from the panels.
At a public meeting in Ranfurly last December, former Delta employee and whistleblower Richard Healey spoke about risks associated with utility-scale solar projects.
Fire was a major concern due to the gases given off if the panels ignited. Retreat would be difficult and a possible fire would put stock at risk.
Nearby residents also voiced worries over construction impacts. The plan requires driving 10,000 metal stakes 2m into the ground, a process locals fear could generate disruptive noise and vibrations.
