Wind farm expansion avoids Environment Court

TrustPower has managed to avoid having its planned Tararua wind farm expansion appealed to the Environment Court.

It has reached an agreement with community pressure group Aokautere Guardians and other parties about conditions for adding 31 further turbines to the development.

Resource consent was granted for the additional turbines last month.

Aokautere Guardians president Quentin Poole said the agreement was a milestone in the operation of wind farms in New Zealand.

"Agreement by TrustPower to create monitoring and control systems, which will eliminate undue noise for residents, was a major factor in achieving what I believe is an excellent outcome for all parties," he said.

TrustPower has also committed itself to work with the guardians on community projects.

TrustPower generation manager Mike Kedian said the energy company will help the community with "environmental, conservation or recreational opportunities".

He said the company would work toward confirming the expansion project by reviewing contract and tender details to ensure its viability.

TrustPower aims to complete the expansion by late 2006.

- nzpa