Kapuni Solar wins big at the Taranaki Regional Council Environmental Awards

Nova Energy’s Kapuni solar power plant has been recognised in the Taranaki Regional Council Environmental awards, taking out the top prize for Environmental Leadership in Climate Action. The awards recognise outstanding initiatives that are making a meaningful difference to protecting and enhancing the environment in Taranaki.

David Collins, GM Operations & Development, said “It’s great recognition for the Kapuni solar plant, which was New Zealand’s largest solar plant for some time. While it recently lost that title, it’s gained a new one with this award.”

Judges noted that Nova Energy “has shown significant commitment and investment in climate change mitigation which demonstrates dedication to protecting our environment for future generations. This project is a first of its kind in the region and demonstrates the feasibility and performance of solar on a commercial scale”.

In addition to demonstrating the feasibility and performance of solar power in the Taranaki climate for future projects, the project had strong partnerships with local hapu and also undertook agrivoltaics studies with Massey University, providing critical information for dual land use options.