Fotowatio Renewable Ventures (FRV) Australia and Genesis Energy have officially launched the Lauriston Solar Farm, a 63-megawatt (MW) solar project in New Zealand’s Canterbury region, marking a significant step in the country’s renewable energy development.
Situated on a 93-hectare site near Christchurch, the Lauriston facility is now one of New Zealand’s largest operational solar farms. The plant features nearly 90,000 solar panels and was constructed by Beon Energy Solutions, generating around 100 local jobs during the building phase. A team of three professionals will oversee its ongoing operations and maintenance.
The project was developed under a 10-year power purchase agreement (PPA) signed between FRV and Genesis Energy. It aims to contribute to New Zealand’s national goal of reaching net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
“To achieve our climate goals, we must transform our energy matrix towards renewable sources,” said Malcolm Johns, CEO of Genesis Energy. “The Lauriston solar plant represents an important step in this direction, demonstrating the value of strategic alliances in the energy transition.”
New Zealand currently sources about 80% of its electricity from renewables. To meet its 2050 climate targets, this figure will need to rise to at least 95%, with electricity providing 60% of the country’s total energy needs, up from 38% today, according to Genesis.
FRV Australia’s CEO, Carlo Frigerio, said the project aligns with the company’s broader vision: “Lauriston Solar Farm represents our vision of building a sustainable future through innovative renewable solutions, generating tangible social and environmental benefits for both local communities and the country.”
The opening ceremony was attended by several government officials, including Minister for the South Island James Meager, Ashburton Mayor Neil Brown, and local electricity company executive Onno Moulder, underlining the project’s regional and national importance.
In addition to energy generation, the project includes a partnership with Lauriston School to promote STEM education over the next five years.
FRV and Genesis have also confirmed that they are progressing with additional solar developments in Foxton, continuing their collaboration in expanding New Zealand’s solar capacity.
