Lodestone Energy Plans 220-MW Solar Park in New Zealand

• Lodestone Energy to build 220-MW solar park in New Zealand's South Island, powering 50,000 homes annually. Expanding portfolio with Haldon Station partnership.

Lodestone Energy has announced plans to build a 220-MW solar park in New Zealand's South Island, with funding coming from a Series D capital raising. The project, set to begin construction in 2025, will be located on a 340-ha property in the Mackenzie district and is expected to generate 340 GWh of electricity annually, enough to power nearly 50,000 homes. The site was chosen for its high-quality solar resources, proximity to transmission infrastructure, good road access, and minimal visual impact.

Partnering with Haldon Station for the project's execution, Lodestone Energy aims to expand its portfolio in New Zealand, which currently includes two operational solar farms and three projects in the planning or construction stages. The company recently received consent for three PV projects on the South Island, scheduled for installation between 2024 and 2026.

What factors led Lodestone Energy to choose the Mackenzie district for its solar park?

Factors that led Lodestone Energy to choose the Mackenzie district for its solar park include:

• High-quality solar resources in the area, ensuring optimal energy generation potential
  
• Proximity to existing transmission infrastructure, facilitating the connection of the solar park to the grid
  
• Good road access to the site, making construction and maintenance of the solar park more efficient
  
• Minimal visual impact on the surrounding landscape, ensuring minimal disruption to the environment and local community
  
• Partnership with Haldon Station for project execution, leveraging local expertise and resources for successful implementation
• Strategic location in the South Island, allowing Lodestone Energy to expand its renewable energy portfolio in New Zealand and contribute to the country's clean energy goals.