Lodestone acquires two grid-scale solar sites in Manawatu region

These can generate 27-megawatt-peak each.

New Zealand-based solar firm Lodestone Energy has acquired two grid-scale solar sites in the Manawatu region from renewables developer Kiwi Solar.

In a statement, the company said the sites can each generate 27 megawatt-peak (MWp), producing an additional 84 gigawatt-hours of renewable electricity each year. This capacity can power up to 11,700 homes. 

Both sites have land options signed and are well-progressed in the connection process with Powerco.  

Lodestone said the projects will be developed in conjunction with a third Manawatu site that is already consented and in detailed planning. Construction on the first of these sites is due to start in mid-2025.

The company operates two solar farms near Kaitaia and Edgecumbe. There are also other projects under development: two near Waiotahe and Whitianga, and ten others across New Zealand. These projects will add a total of 564 MWp of renewable energy to the grid.