Genesis wins case for wind farm

Murray Jackson

The Environment Court has granted power company Genesis Energy resource consent to build a wind farm on Awhitu Peninsula, south of Auckland.

The court said the 18-turbine development was justified on the basis of the national need for more renewable energy and the minor visual effects on the environment.

The company had appealed to the Environment Court after Franklin District Council had rejected its application for the wind farm last year because of opposition to "visual pollution" in a rural area, impact on equestrian activities and presence of Maori archaeological sites.

"The decision from the Environment Court is good news for us and for renewable energy," said Genesis chief executive Murray Jackson.

Awhitu Peninsula was an excellent site for a wind farm because of its uniform wind characteristics, good site access and proximity to a large customer base, he said.

However, one opponent last night described the decision as disgusting.

Michelle Innes, who runs the Isola Equestrian Centre, said everyone who had bought in the area would have their peace undermined.

"I don't think anyone fully comprehends how it will affect lives. There are so many unknowns."

Genesis agreed prior to the Environment Court hearing to remove a turbine from the application and relocate two others to locations with less visual impact.

The wind farm was supported in the appeal process by Greenpeace, Auckland Regional Council, Environmental Defence Society, the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority and some local residents.

It is expected to produce enough power for 7500 homes and commissioning is planned for November 2007.

The decision was welcomed by community group Waiuku in Support of Wind Energy (WISE).

Spokeswoman Charmaine Watts said the majority of people living nearby supported the plan.

The Wind Energy Association said the court's decision was strong recognition of the national benefits of wind farm developments, and was an important step in the development of wind farms in New Zealand.