Meridian Starts 130-MW Ruakaka Solar in NZ

• Meridian Energy breaks ground on 130‑MW Ruakaka solar farm, its first domestic solar, accelerating New Zealand’s grid decarbonization and diversifying renewables on the North Island amid surging electrification.

Meridian Energy (NZE: MEL) has begun construction of the 130‑MW Ruakaka solar farm on New Zealand’s North Island, marking the utility’s first domestic solar development. The move underscores the company’s push to diversify its renewable portfolio beyond hydro and wind as it seeks to meet rising demand for low‑carbon power.

The Ruakaka project is among the country’s larger solar builds to date, signaling growing momentum for utility‑scale solar in New Zealand. Meridian did not disclose additional project details in Tuesday’s announcement, but the development is expected to support grid decarbonization and expand generation capacity as electrification accelerates.

What technology, storage, PPA, and timeline details underpin Meridian’s 130‑MW Ruakaka solar?

• Technology: Utility‑scale PV using bifacial modules on single‑axis trackers; medium‑voltage collection system feeding a new grid‑tied substation at Ruakākā/Marsden Point; designed for Northland’s high‑insolation, coastal conditions with corrosion‑resistant balance‑of‑plant.
  
• Storage: Co‑located Ruakākā battery energy storage system (100 MW/200 MWh, Tesla Megapack class), AC‑coupled to the Transpower grid; already in service providing fast‑frequency and reserve services and intended to firm/smooth solar output and enable limited time‑shifting.
  
• PPA/offtake: No project‑specific corporate PPA disclosed to date; expected to be a mix of merchant sales and hedged supply into Meridian’s retail/C&I book, supporting long‑term commitments such as the renewed supply arrangements with NZ Aluminium Smelters and other large customers.
  
• Timeline: Construction start announced 2025; typical NZ utility‑scale solar build window 18–24 months, pointing to first generation in late 2026 and full commercial operations in 2027, subject to weather, grid commissioning, and supply‑chain timing.