Construction to begin on one of NZ’s largest solar farms

Christchurch Airport’s clean energy hub is a step closer to reality with our development partners Contact Energy and Lightsource bp confirming their investment to build the Kōwhai Park solar farm.

With around 300,000 panels spanning 230 hectares, Kōwhai Park will help meet the growing demand for renewable energy. Each year, the solar farm will generate electricity equivalent to the consumption of around 36,000 homes.

Justin Watson, Christchurch Airport Chief Executive, said “Kōwhai Park highlights our commitment to support decarbonisation through creating a clean energy hub that will fuel the region’s economic prosperity.”

“This array will be the same size as around 220 rugby fields – it will be an impressive sight for everyone flying to or from Ōtautahi Christchurch.

“It’s great to see our partners Contact Energy and Lightsource bp ready to develop Stage 1 of Kōwhai Park. These two organisations have all the expertise to make this a project that Canterbury can be proud of and we’re grateful to have them onboard. “

“We’re also grateful to Orion, Environment Canterbury and Airways for helping us reach this milestone.”“We’re focused on getting other renewable energy projects located there so we can become a clean energy hub that will enable our city and region to decarbonise and help New Zealand reach its net goals.

“Today’s announcement paves the way for Lightsource bp and Contact Energy to begin construction in coming weeks. We look forward to celebrating more then.”

Justin Watson, Christchurch Airport Chief Executive