Milestone utility-scale solar farm in Northland drives energy resilience through innovation.
NewPower Energy and sister company Infratec launched the Naumai solar farm in May 2024. At that stage it was Northland’s newest 4.8MW utility-scale project and was designed and built by Infratec and is owned by NewPower.
South of Dargaville, Naumai used best-in-class technology and was built for resilience, withstanding 2023’s record rainfall. The solar farm was completed during one of the wettest winters in Northland, but Cyclone Gabrielle confirmed our design flood height assumptions, and resilience measures were correct. Engineering at this high level is paramount as New Zealand’s weather becomes more volatile.
The project involved Naumai Marae and a mostly local workforce. Developing skills within local communities is in our DNA and collaborating with local iwi and engaging local contractors are the best ways to ensure the community continues to benefit long-term.
“With 7,290 solar panels, the Naumai Solar Farm will provide a substantial portion of the Ruawai district’s daytime energy needs,” said Ricky Smith, GM Generation.
NewPower and Infratec continue to explore large-scale solar and battery storage projects nationwide, supporting New Zealand’s goal of 100% renewable energy.
