Masterton Solar
and Energy Farm
PROJECT INFORMATION
The Masterton Solar & Energy Storage Project is a 109 MW solar farm in Waingawa, Wairarapa, with optional battery storage of up to 91 MW / 200–400 MWh. The Project will generate ~186 GWh annually — enough to power ~26,000 homes — and reduce carbon emissions by ~13,000 tonnes.
With strong grid access, proximity to local demand, and compatibility with ongoing agricultural use, it stands as a flagship clean energy initiative for the region.
LOCATION & GRID CONNECTION
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Waingawa, ~6 km south of Masterton, on 142 hectares of rural-zoned land off State Highway 2.
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Sheep grazing to continue post-construction.
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A 33 kV connection (avoids higher costs of 110 kV) into the Masterton Transpower Substation via short underground cable.
Current Status
The Masterton project has achieved Ready-to-Build (RTB) status. Key development milestones include securing the land over a long term lease; receiving Resource Consent in 2024 (Carterton District Council Notified Resource Consent) as well as securing a variation under a S127 in 2026; signing the Transpower Works Agreement in 2025, and completing both geotechnical investigations and technical advisory appointments.
NZ Clean Energy (NZCE) has commenced the Request for Proposal (RFP) process for the Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) contract, with the appointment of the EPC contractor expected in September 2026. Early works are scheduled to commence in October 2026, with Financial Close targeted for December 2026 and main site works expected to commence in early 2027.
In parallel, NZCE is progressing long lead item equipment procurement, PPA negotiations which are due to be concluded in Septmber 2026 and financing arrangements, with these workstreams supporting the project’s transition to Notice to Proceed (NTP) and construction.
As we move closer to construction, we will continue to engage with the local community and stakeholders.
Please keep up to date with our progress through 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.
Grid Efficiency: Low-cost connection and proximity to demand.
Land Suitability: Flat, unobstructed, and agriculturally compatible.
JobsCreated: Over 100 during construction;
~20 for operations and maintenance.
Local Demand: Immediate proximity to Transpower substations.
Dual Use: Maintains agricultural productivity (sheep grazing).
Regional Impact: Supports Wairarapa’s clean energy transition.
Employment: Boosts local job creation and long-term economic activity.
As we move forward to construction we will be continuing our engagement with the local stakeholders.
