Rānui Solar Farm is now in its final testing phase and is generating up to 9.9 MW (9900 kW) of renewable energy. You can follow the generation in real time here!
The project went very well, although last year’s wet winter was challenging as work was slowed at times due to muddy conditions. However, the highly experienced K&T Construction Group, Australasia, built the farm on time and to budget. In addition, a variety of local contractors were involved, providing services such as IT and technical services and electrical and construction supplies.
Solar generation adds another form of clean, renewable energy and will mean that Marlborough is less reliant on the national grid supply, thus improving the province’s security of electricity supply. Solar power helps to save water in our dams and fuel in our thermal plants for when there is less sun or wind, which means less reliance on fossil fuels.
With around 28,000 ha of vineyards in Marlborough, Rānui Solar Farm replaces a small 14-hectare block of vineyard. Sheep enjoy shade, shelter and an extended growing season under the panels, returning the land to its agricultural roots.
Solar power is now the cheapest form of electricity in most countries, including New Zealand, and its global uptake is growing exponentially. So far, New Zealand’s adoption of solar electricity generation has been slower than elsewhere, but it is accelerating quickly. In 2024, generation from solar increased 62% to its highest level on record at 601 GWh.
Wayne Stronach and Rick Osborne catch up at the end of the project.