Meridian Energy Ltd announced on Friday that its 176-MW Harapaki wind farm in New Zealand has achieved full commercial operation.
The facility, located near the country's eastern coast, is now the second-largest wind farm operating in New Zealand.
The 41-turbine wind farm was completed within a month of its original target date and adhered to the capital forecast of NZD 448 million (USD 269.9 million / EUR 247.8 million). “We're now right in the middle of winter and every bit of generation helps,” said Guy Waipara, Meridian's General Manager of Development.
The Harapaki wind farm, situated approximately 50 km (31 miles) from the port city of Napier on the North Island's east coast, is expected to generate enough electricity to power over 70,000 average households.
The wind farm began producing electricity last November, with all Siemens Gamesa SWT-DD-120 turbines installed by May. As of the end of June, around 90% of the wind farm's capacity was operational.
“This project underscores our commitment to expanding renewable energy capacity in New Zealand and supports our goals for a more sustainable future,” Waipara added.
