DANNEVIRKE SOLAR
AND ENERGY PROJECT
PROJECT INFORMATION
The Dannevirke Solar & Energy Storage Project is a 119MW solar farm in Tararua District, featuring optional battery storage of up to 91 MW / 200–400 MWh. The Project will generate 185 GWh annually — enough to power ~26,000 homes — and cut carbon emissions by ~13,000 tonnes. Strategically located near grid infrastructure and designed for future scalability, this project is a key clean energy initiative for New Zealand’s lower North Island.
LOCATION & GRID CONNECTION
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~6 km west of Dannevirke, Tararua District, on 173 hectares of rural-zoned land off Top Grass Road.
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Dry stock & dairy cattle grazing, transitioning to sheep grazing post-construction.
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New dedicated dual circuit 33kv line from the site to the Transpower Dannevirke substation where we will install 2 dedicated 33kv/ 110kv transformers.
Current Status
NZ Clean Energy (NZCE) aims to have achieved Ready-to-Build (RTB) status in early 2027. Key development milestones included securing the land, then in November 2024 receiving Resource Consent. NZCE continue to work with Transpower to enable signing of the Transpower Works Agreement as well as completing both geotechnical investigations and technical advisory appointments.
During 2026 NZCE will be conducting surveys and lodging a Resource Consent application for an additional ~50ha extension to the project. This extension will add additional capacity to the Project, with this extension being constructed at the same time as the original area.
Looking ahead post achieving RTB, 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 2027 having achieved Financial close.
NZCE is confident that this project 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.
Please keep updated with our progress either on this website page or our LinkedIn page.
CONSTRUCTION TIMELINE
& LIFECYCLE
Duration
Estimated 12–18 months.
ECONOMIC & social benefits
Carbon Reduction: ~13,000 tonnes annually.
Energy Supply: Powers ~26,000 homes.
Land Compatibility: Supports ongoing agricultural use and maintains rural landscape.
Grid route: No third-party easements required due to extended project boundary.
JobsCreated: Over 100 during construction;
~20 for operations and maintenance.
Local Employment: Significant job creation during and after construction.
Procurement: Active engagement with EPC providers and manufacturers underway.
Regional Impact: Strengthens energy resilience in the Tararua District and beyond.
