Solar energy is experiencing significant growth as New Zealand aims to decrease its reliance on coal-fired power and meet growing demand from the continued electrification of new technologies (e.g. electric transport and increased industrial activity including artificial intelligence).
This presents an exciting opportunity to develop solar projects on both Māori land and general owned land, enabling landowners to enter into a long-term lease with Tūmanako Rānui and develop a solar farm on their land, providing long-term financial security and clean renewable energy that helps address climate change.
Some of the benefits include: Long-term income stability from leasing the land Use of non-productive pasture-land Sharing usable pasture with animals like sheep Diversification of income – an additional revenue stream beneficial for farmers or landowners who may face fluctuations in agricultural income streams. Environmental ethics ...
Land can be brought back to agricultural uses at the end of the operational life (between 35-45 years) for solar installations. A long-term solar farm can provide a recovery period for land, increasing the value for agriculture in the future. Giving soil rest can also maintain ...
Solar farming in New Zealand contributes to renewable energy generation, job creation, energy independence, economic growth, technological advancements, and environmental benefits. It fosters sustainable development and strengthens the economy. It helps to achieve our objective of generating 100 percent of our electricity from renewable sources by ...
Solar farms are typically concealed with screening vegetation, and panels are mounted close to the ground (less than 3m high). Generally, solar farms do not generate traffic, as there is minimal staff, and only occasional visits are necessary for maintenance and cleaning. They also do not ...
The majority of projects are on a lease, but it is possible to buy the land on an ‘option to purchase’ arrangement. This is assessed on a case-by-case basis.