Harmony & Clarus began construction 202 MW Tauhei farm in Waikato

First Renewables is a subsidiary of Clarus, and Harmony Energy began construction on New Zealand’s largest solar farm at Te Aroha in Waikato. Approvals for the 202 MW Tauhei Solar Farm were secured in Jan 2025. The 202 MW farm would cover 182 hectares and generate 280 GWh annually, supplying electricity to about 35,000 homes and businesses. Commissioning was scheduled for late 2026. Meridian Energy agreed to a 10-year power purchase deal. The project was supported by the Government’s Fast Track Act and involved input from Ngāti Haua and Ngāti Tumutumu. Elecnor was appointed as construction partner. Up to 350 jobs were expected during peak construction. Native planting and wetland restoration were underway, and sheep grazing was planned on-site. Funding came from ANZ, ASB, BNZ, and MUFG Bank.