Contact Energy has revived its plans for a Southland windfarm, this time seeking approval through a fast-track scheme. The earlier proposal was declined by authorities earlier this year.
The new application covers 55 turbines across a 58-square-kilometre site on the Jedburgh Plateau. Output would range from 250 to 350 megawatts, supplying power to as many as 150,000 homes.
Expert Panel Rejection Over Ecological Impacts
The earlier proposal was declined in March by an expert panel working under previous fast-track rules and the Environmental Defence Society supported the refusal.
However, the panel accepted the project’s renewable energy potential but said the company had failed to adequately address impacts on native vegetation and habitats.
CEO Mike Fuge criticised the outcome, saying it imposed “millions of dollars” in extra costs and showed “New Zealand wasn’t open for business.”
However, Contact had already spent $20 million on Resource Management Act compliance and development work. Fuge warned further litigation could cost another $10m, quipping: “There will be another dozen late-model Audis and BMWs going down Remuera Rd, The Terrace, when we’ve finished this.”
Second Attempt Through Fast-Track Approvals Act
Contact sought entry into the Fast-track Approvals Act (FTAA) process following the March setback. Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop approved the referral on 31 July, and the company lodged its formal application on 29 August.
Contact’s referral highlighted economic benefits, including 240 construction jobs and an additional $230m–$280m to the New Zealand economy. The company also argued the project supports the government’s goal of doubling renewable electricity generation by 2050.
Under the FTAA, decisions are expected within six months of lodgement, significantly faster than standard RMA timelines.
Political Backing for Investment Certainty
Regional Development Minister Shane Jones confirmed he met with Contact’s board to discuss the project. “They’ve identified that what they see as one of the major impediments to the supply of more energy is the fact that there’s no certainty, there’s no guarantee you’ll get a permit within a reasonable timeframe,” he said.
“We are not going to turn the fortunes of our country around unless the politicians and the ministers take control of these big projects. Sadly, when we outsource these things, we lose control.” Jones defended the government’s new approach.