DANNEVIRKE SOLAR
AND ENERGY PROJECT
PROJECT INFORMATION
The Dannevirke Solar & Energy Storage Project is a 107 MW solar farm in Tararua District, featuring optional battery storage of up to 72 MW / 150–300 MWh. With a 40-year operational life, it will generate 181 GWh annually—enough to power 25,000 homes—and cut carbon emissions by 13,000 tonnes. Strategically located near grid infrastructure and designed for future scalability, DVK is a key clean energy initiative for New Zealand’s lower North Island.
Solar Capacity: 107 MW (DC)
Annual Generation: ~181 GWh
Solar Panels: ~170,000 units
Inverters: ~18 solar + ~18 BESS inverters
Solar Yield: 1703 MWh
Operational Life: 40 years
LOCATION & GRID CONNECTION
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~6 km west of Dannevirke, Tararua District, on 213 hectares of rural-zoned land off Top Grass Road.
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Dry stock cattle grazing, transitioning to sheep grazing post-construction.
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Double circuit coupler on 110 kV network, linking to 220 kV backbone at Bunnythorpe through the Transpower Dannevirke Substation via short underground cable.
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.
CONSTRUCTION TIMELINE
& LIFECYCLE
Duration
Estimated 12–18 months.
Status:
Resource consent granted (Nov 2024);
Ready-to-Build targeted for Q4 2025.
ECONOMIC & social benefits
Carbon Reduction: ~13,000 tonnes annually.
Energy Supply: Powers ~25,000 homes.
Grid Priority: Double circuit connection ensures dispatch priority and avoids congestion.
Land Compatibility: Supports ongoing agricultural use and maintains rural landscape.
Grid route: No third-party easements required due to extended project boundary.
Jobs Created: Over 100 during construction;
~20 for operations and maintenance.
Local Employment: Significant job creation during and after construction.
Futureproofing: Direct link to 220 kV backbone enhances long-term grid access.
Procurement: Active engagement with EPC providers and manufacturers underway.
Regional Impact: Strengthens energy resilience in the Tararua District and beyond.
