A new community fund, totalling $75,000, has been launched by Meridian and is destined for three Northern Southland communities around the White Hill wind farm.
Mossburn, Dipton and Lumsden would all benefit from the Meridian White Hill Community Fund, which would be distributed over three years and administered by a panel of community members and Meridian staff, becoming operational in March next year.
Meridian strategic relations adviser Mark France said the community fund was Meridian's way of recognising the special contribution of the communities surrounding the White Hill wind farm during its construction and operation.
The wind farm, opened by then prime minister Helen Clark on June 8, 2007, is Meridian's second wind farm development.
It was constructed on an 8km by 3km section of forestry land in Southland, southeast of Mossburn.
The site, considered ideal for wind-powered electricity generation because of strong and consistent winds, features 29 turbines and has the potential to provide power for up to 30,000 homes.
"We received huge local support for the building of the White Hill wind farm," Mr France said.
"We believe we have become part of the local community, so we are committed to helping local people maintain a strong and successful community."
The model of community funding had worked well in Meridian's other generation areas, including Manapouri, Waitaki and Te Apiti.
"It gives people a sense of ownership of the funding process and a say in how the funds are used. This will ensure that initiatives that are of value to the community are supported."
The initial three-year funding round would allow for certainty in planning projects of long-term benefit and would enable people to initiate various projects "that will help ensure a successful and sustainable community", Mr France said.
Southland District Mayor Frana Cardno said the Meridian White Hill Community Fund would be of great benefit to the communities of Mossburn, Dipton and Lumsden.
"The relationship Meridian has had with the communities surrounding the White Hill wind farm has been excellent. Meridian has set a good example in how organisations should work with local communities to keep them informed in their operations. This area relies a lot on volunteers and community spirit, so the new community fund is a welcome addition to our area," she said.
There will be two funding allocation meetings per year, with the first in March 2009.
Funding decisions would be based on the objectives and criteria established for the fund, including promoting environmental awareness and programmes that sustain and improve the quality of the environment; contributing to the sustainability of non-profit organisations and volunteer services; and the provision of learning opportunities.
Funding request forms will be made available at www.meridian.co.nz.
