
Scargill SOLAR & ENERGY STORAGE PROJECT
The Project
The Scargill Solar & Energy Storage Project (SCAR) is a 290 MW (DC) utility-scale renewable energy development located in Scargill Valley, approximately 1.5 hours north of Christchurch. The project comprises 290 MW of solar photovoltaic (PV) generation and includes an operational Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) of up to 241 MW / 580–1160 MWh. Designed for a 40-year operational life, SCAR is one of New Zealand’s largest proposed solar projects and is expected to play a key role in decarbonising the national grid and enhancing energy security.
The project will generate approximately 506 GWh of clean electricity per year, enough to supply over 50,000 homes, while offsetting an estimated 37,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide annually.
The site spans 463 hectares of rural-zoned land on Scargill Valley Road and is currently used for sheep grazing, which will continue post-construction. Its remote setting, limited surrounding development, and large contiguous land area provide an ideal environment for efficient solar development with minimal impact on neighbouring properties. The land’s gently rolling and open landscape supports optimal solar array layout and cost-effective construction.
Grid connection will be made directly to Transpower’s 220 kV overhead line (OHL) that passes through the site. A dedicated substation will be built to connect SCAR to this backbone of New Zealand’s national grid, enabling high-capacity export and improving system integration. This level of transmission access positions SCAR to deliver large-scale, unconstrained generation output into the national electricity market.
The project will feature around 463,800 solar panels, supported by 60 solar inverters, and 60 BESS inverters.
Construction is expected to last 12 to 18 months, creating approximately 100 jobs during the build phase and supporting ~20 long-term operations and maintenance roles once operational.
NZCE has secured the land and completed early-stage feasibility and planning work, including red flag assessments and pre-application engagement with regulatory authorities. Resource consent and grid investigations are expected to commence in Q3/Q4 2025, with Ready-to-Build (RTB) status targeted for Q4 2026. To manage these parallel processes, NZCE has appointed both resource consent and grid consultants.
With its scale, strong grid connection point, remote rural location, and ongoing dual land use, the Scargill project is well positioned to be a cornerstone of New Zealand’s renewable energy future. NZCE is committed to advancing the development and welcomes further engagement with stakeholders as the project progresses toward delivery.
Why has this site been selected
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The site has been chosen because of it’s location on the National Grid, A new substation will connect the project into Transpower’s 220kv lines that cross over the site. This allows for a firm and reliable connection to the National Grid.
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Grazing land has been identified and as such there will be a fractional loss of agricultural land as grazing will continue on the land post construction.
Limited impact on native vegetation / biodiversity. All existing native vegetation on site is intended to be retained.
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Initial research suggests support for renewable energy projects. This allows for us to ensure we develop the most suitable project possible in conjunction with the key stakeholders.
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Scargill Solar and Energy Storage Farm has high levels of solar irradiation allowing for a high performing renewable energy system. Canterbury is one of the fastest growing region in NZ, new generation projects such as this will assist with the additional energy demand.
Benefits of the Project
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This project will produce energy for use in the local area, i.e. generated close to where it is used. Increased energy security for the local area and wider network.
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During construction we anticipate over 100 jobs being created for each project, ranging from electrical and solar PV work to security and groundworks.
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We are actively encouraging local business to get in touch with us to register their interest in the project so we can get as many local companies involved as possible.
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A number of jobs will be created such as panel cleaning & maintenance, general testing and inspecting of electrics and general site maintenance and upkeep.
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Will be available to local schools and community groups wishing to visit to understand more about the project and what is involved.
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Will be in place to explain to the local are and any passers-by what the project details are.