Meridian Energy's path to solar generation at Bunnythorpe and Morrinsville
At a glance
As New Zealand strengthens energy security and expands renewable generation to meet future demand, Meridian Energy Limited is growing and diversifying its renewable generation portfolio. The proposed Bunnythorpe and Morrinsville solar farms will contribute more than 230 MWac of new solar generation capacity, helping supply clean electricity to homes and businesses while supporting a resilient energy system.
The challenge
Progressing both developments through the local authority consenting process required an integrated approach across planning, engineering and environmental disciplines.
Meridian Energy needed robust technical assessments and design documentation to support its resource consent applications. This work needed to address potential impacts on the surrounding environment and infrastructure while establishing practical mitigation measures and consent conditions. Strong coordination across specialist teams was critical to reducing consenting risk, supporting project viability and creating a clear pathway towards consent approval.
Our response
Meridian Energy engaged us to develop the engineering and environmental foundations required to support the consent applications for both solar farms.
Our multidisciplinary team delivered civil and environmental engineering services throughout the consent design process. We prepared site grading and earthworks design, access and road layout plans, stormwater and flood modelling, groundwater and geotechnical assessments, erosion and sediment control strategies, construction methodologies, regional transport studies and supporting engineering documentation for regulatory approvals.
At Bunnythorpe, we supported the development of a proposed 122 MWac solar farm within Meridian Energy's wider energy hub near Palmerston North. The project covers approximately 280 hectares and required extensive environmental and engineering investigations to inform the consent process.
At Morrinsville, we helped develop the consent design for a proposed 110 MWac solar farm, including a switching station and underground electrical connections. Our team completed site investigations and technical assessments that informed project planning and resource consent documentation.
The impact
Meridian Energy secured consent for both projects with the support of a comprehensive consent design package and detailed technical assessments. Limited or non-notified consents were granted for both developments, avoiding the additional time and costs associated with a hearing process.
Together, the projects represent an important addition to New Zealand's renewable energy capacity. They demonstrate how integrated engineering and environmental expertise can support the delivery of critical infrastructure that advances the country's energy transition. Through our partnership with Meridian Energy, we helped move two large-scale solar developments from concept towards construction readiness.