Post by Mercury NZ

Fast-track approval for Puke Kapo Hau Wind Farm marks another step forward in New Zealand’s renewable energy build. ⚡🌱 We’ve welcomed resource consent approval to develop Puke Kapo Hau Wind Farm in Otago — the next stage of renewable generation development at Mahinerangi. Once built, Puke Kapo Hau will include up to 44 turbines, with installed capacity of up to 190MW. We expect it to generate around 550GWh each year — enough electricity to power the equivalent of about 78,000 average homes. The project will now progress through final development activities in preparation for a final investment decision, with anticipated investment of $500m–$600m. Subject to that decision, construction could begin by the end of 2026 and take around three years to complete. “Mahinerangi Wind Farm was commissioned in 2011 and has been a strong performer after 15 years of operation; we’re aiming to build on that success with Puke Kapo Hau,” says Matthew Tolcher, our Executive GM, Generation Development. “We also want to recognise the constructive engagement between Mercury and Tē Rūnanga o Ōtākou, and their support for the proposal." This milestone supports our plan to add 3.5TWh of new generation by 2030, helping deliver more reliable, renewable electricity for Aotearoa and supporting the country’s shift to a lower carbon future. A big thank you to everyone who took the time to consider the application, make a submission, ask questions and contribute through the Fast-track process.