Contact Energy Limited (Contact) has today announced its intention to appeal the Environmental Protection Authority’s expert consenting panel decision that saw consent for the company’s proposed Southland Wind Farm declined. Contact also intends to re-apply under the new Fast-Track consenting process for this project.
“The Southland Wind Farm is a crucial project to enhance energy security for all New Zealanders, benefiting both households and the industries that drive our economy and support communities,” says Chief Executive Officer, Mike Fuge.
“We have reviewed, in detail, the recent decision by the consenting panel to decline our application. The panel’s decision is flawed, with significant legal errors identified. We will lodge an appeal with the High Court, outlining the specific areas of law where the decision is incorrect,” says Mr Fuge.
“New Zealand’s domestic energy supply is under increasing pressure. Natural gas supplies from offshore fields continue to decline faster than expected, and demand for electricity is growing. There is a pressing long-term need to increase electricity supply,” says Mr Fuge.
“We continue to see a real need for the Southland Wind Farm to provide secure, affordable, and environmentally friendly electricity. This has guided our decision to re-apply for consent under theupdated Fast-Track Approvals Act 2024.”
The Department of Conservation, Ngai Tahu, Environment Southland, Southland District Council and Gore District Council approved of the conditions that Contact put forward for this project. The Southland Wind Farm will have significant economic benefits for local communities, creating up to 240 jobs during construction, with an estimated $230 million to $280 million added into the New Zealand economy.
The wind farm would also have a range of environmental benefits due to the extensive pest control, riparian planting and wetland restoration which Contact would undertake.
“We are deeply committed to being a leader in the decarbonisation of New Zealand, playing our part to ensure energy security for all Kiwis, and being a good neighbour in the communities in which we operate,” says Mr Fuge.
The Panel’s decision can be appealed to the High Court within 15 working days from the decision date, only on points of law either by the applicant or those who were invited to comment during the application process.
