Nova Energy pauses Twizel solar farm application

Two major solar projects in the Mackenzie District are currently on hold after their developers voluntarily suspended fast-track applications. The latest pause involves a proposed 300-megawatt facility east of Twizel, marking the second such delay in the region this year.

Nova Energy Limited filed its application in June for The Twizel Solar Project. The plan covers 500 hectares of an 868-hectare site. The project aims to generate enough power for 75,000 homes every year. On October 2, the company asked regulators to suspend the processing of its bid under the fast-track Approvals Act.

A Nova Energy spokesperson explained that the pause allows the company to answer additional questions from the expert panel. These inquiries focus on ecological effects and measures to protect specific animal and plant species. The company stated it is taking these questions seriously and remains committed to the approval process.

"Nova requested a temporary suspension of the Twizel Solar Project application process to allow sufficient time to respond thoroughly to further questions from the expert panel," the spokesperson said.

Mary Murdoch, a spokesperson for a local Twizel community group, said residents were pleased with the applicant's approach. She noted that Nova Energy made an effort to consult with the community. "We feel we have been listened to," Murdoch said. Her group works to educate residents on fast-track developments in the district.

This suspension follows a similar move by Far North Solar Farm Limited in August. That company paused The Point Solar project, which was planned for the northern shore of Lake Benmore. Far North Solar Farm cited the need for expert input and research to address concerns raised by the panel at the time.

At that earlier date, Murdoch criticized Far North Solar Farm for gaming the fast-track system, a claim the company denied. She also warned that combining fast-track processes with the government's Natural Environment Bill and Planning Bill could strip future developments of meaningful community consultation.