DARFIELD SOLAR AND
ENERGY PROJECT
PROJECT INFORMATION
The Darfield Solar & Energy Storage Project is a landmark 128 MWp solar development in Canterbury, New Zealand, featuring optional battery storage of up to 106 MW / 200–400 MWh. The Project will generate ~218 GWh annually—enough to power ~30,000 homes—while reducing carbon emissions by ~16,000 tonnes. Strategically located next to Fonterra’s Kimberley Factory, it offers dual energy offtake pathways and strong grid connectivity, making it a key contributor to New Zealand’s clean energy future.
LOCATION & GRID CONNECTION
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1.5 km north of Darfield, Canterbury, on a 148-hectare site off Homebush Road. The land is zoned General Rural under Selwyn District’s Partially Operative District Plan.
Fonterra’s Kimberley Factory is located immediately next door, enabling industrial energy supply opportunities.
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Currently used for sheep grazing, which will continue post-construction.
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Orion-owned Kimberley Substation via underground cable.
Current status
Development milestones are progressing well. Resource Consent was granted in 2025, with the grid connection agreements with Orion now completed and geotechnical investigations also completed. NZ Clean Energy (NZCE) has also signed a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with Fonterra in 2026, further strengthening the project’s route to market.
Looking ahead, NZCE has commenced the formal Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) Request for Proposal (RFP) process and will be issued to market late 2026. With the assistance of our appointed Technical Advisor, we will progress the EPC tender process and finalise equipment suppliers. Financial Close is targeted for early 2027, with site works expected to commence in mid-2027.
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: ~16,000 tonnes annually.
Energy Supply: Powers ~30,000 homes.
Grid Reliability: Strengthens local and national grid infrastructure.
Engineering Simplicity: Flat, obstruction-free land supports efficient installation.
Jobs Created: ~100 during construction;
~20 for ongoing operations and maintenance.
Industrial Offtake: PPA with Fonterra.
Commercial Flexibility: Dual offtake pathways—industrial and national grid.
Local Employment: Boosts regional job creation during and after construction.
Land Use Compatibility: Maintains agricultural activity (sheep grazing).
