DANNEVIRKE SOLAR AND ENERGY PROJECT
PROJECT Information
The Dannevirke Solar & Energy Storage Project (DVK) is a 107 MW (DC) utility-scale renewable energy development located approximately 6 kilometres west of Dannevirke, in New Zealand’s Tararua District. The project includes an optional Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) of up to 72 MW / 150–300 MWh and is designed for a 40-year operational life.
Once completed, DVK will generate approximately 181 GWh per year, supplying the equivalent of approximately 25,000 New Zealand homes annually and offsetting approximately 13,000 tonnes of CO₂ emissions every year.
The site spans 213 hectares of rural-zoned land off Top Grass Road and is currently used for dry stock cattle grazing, which will transition to sheep grazing alongside solar operations post-construction. The property includes some pine stands and mature shelterbelts, all within a predominantly rural landscape.
Grid connection will be made to the Transpower Dannevirke Substation, located directly across Top Grass Road, via a short underground cable. A double circuit coupler connection on the 110 kV network has been selected over the single circuit option to ensure priority dispatch on the network and avoid congestion. This connection strategy also links directly to the 220 kV backbone at Bunnythorpe which is south of DVK, futureproofing grid access. In partnership with a second landowner, the project boundary extends to the substation itself, removing the need for third-party easements and simplifying the connection.
The project will include approximately 170,000 solar panels, supported by approximately 18 solar inverters and approximately 18 BESS inverters.
Construction is expected to take 12–18 months, creating over 100 temporary construction jobs and supporting around 20 operations and maintenance roles long term.
The project has now secured resource consent (granted in November 2024), and NZCE aims to achieve Ready-to-Build status by Q4 2025, following the completion of the Transpower Works Agreement, geotechnical investigations, and additional resource consent for the expanded site footprint. Land for the project was secured in May 2023.
NZCE is actively engaging with EPC providers and equipment manufacturers in preparation for a formal procurement process.
CURRENT STATUS
NZCE aims to have achieved Ready-to-Build (RTB) status by Q4 2025. Key development milestones include securing the land, receiving Resource Consent in November 2024 (hyper link needed). NZCE continue to work with Transpower to enable signing of the Transpower Works Agreement in Q3/4 2025 as well as completing both geotechnical investigations and technical advisory appointments.
Looking ahead post achieving RTB, NZ Clean Energy (NZCE) plans to launch a formal Engineering, Procurement and Construction tender process, and finalise equipment suppliers. In parallel, NZCE will conclude the PPA (Power Purchase Agreement) negotiations and financing arrangements, thus allowing us to achieve Notice to Proceed (NTP) in 2026. Please keep updated with our progress either on this website page or our LinkedIn page.
NZCE is confident that DVK will deliver long-term value to the local economy and national energy system. Its location, grid prioritisation, and dual land use offer a compelling combination of technical, commercial, and environmental benefits. Financial close and construction are targeted for 2026, with strong support from external experts confirming that no material project risks are expected to prevent delivery.
Why has this site been selected
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The main factor for identifying and choosing the site is the proximity to the grid. The site is ~1km from the substation at Dannevirke which is the point of connection. 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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Dannevirke Solar Farm has high levels of solar irradiation allowing for a high performing renewable energy system. Demand for electricity in the surrounding area is increasing year on year.
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.