Nova Energy Halts Twizel Solar Application Over Panel Queries

Nova Energy Limited has voluntarily paused its fast-track application for a major solar development near Twizel. The company submitted its request under the fast-track Approvals Act in June. The project, named The Twizel Solar Project, is located east of Twizel in the Mackenzie District.

The application covers a total site area of 868 hectares. Nova Energy plans to utilize 500 hectares of that land for the solar farm. The facility is designed to generate 300 megawatts of power. This output would supply enough electricity for 75,000 homes each year.

On October 2, Nova Energy formally requested a suspension of the application processing. A spokesperson for the company stated the pause was necessary to address questions from the expert panel. The panel raised specific concerns about the ecological effects of the development. They also asked for proposed measures to protect important animal and plant species in the area.

Nova Energy described its response as a commitment to working constructively through the approval process. The company acknowledged the environmental value of the site. “We recognise the particular environmental values of the area and .. Nova remains committed to working constructively through the approval process,” the spokesperson said.

Mary Murdoch, a spokesperson for a local community group, said residents were pleased with the company’s engagement. Murdoch noted that Nova Energy made an effort to genuinely consult with the community. “We feel we have been listened to,” she said. The community group focuses on addressing developments and educating residents on fast-track processes.

This is the second time a solar project in the district has paused under the fast-track system. In August, Far North Solar Farm Limited suspended the application for The Point Solar. That project was planned for the northern shore of Lake Benmore. Far North Solar Farm cited concerns from its own expert panel that required further research.

Murdoch previously criticized Far North Solar Farm for gaming the fast-track system, a claim that company denied. She now argues that issues extend beyond individual projects. With the government’s new Natural Environment Bill and Planning Bill, she says future developments may lose meaningful community consultation.