Local Maori group supports 25 MW geothermal plant expansion
Ngawha geothermal plant (source: Ormat)
Alexander Richter
1 Sep 2015
Top Energy receives support from local Maori group committee on its proposed 25 MW geothermal power project at Ngawha, New Zealand. The project is expected to help attract economic development with related industrial activities.
New Zealand based Top Energy is applying for consent to expand its geothermal power plant at Ng?wh? and has now signed an agreement with the Ng?wh? Marae, a local Maori group committee, as reported by Radio New Zealand
“Ng?wh? Marae near Kaikohe recently celebrated an agreement between Top Energy and the marae’s komiti to work together on land collectively owned by Ng?ti Rangi hap? members. Far North District mayor John Carter said it was a significant step for Ng?wh? Marae to form a partnership with Top Energy.
The partnership is seen to be helpful in attracting investment in the region, e.g. in an industrial park that could see the establishment of sawmills, milk powder factories, and horticulture, essentially creating job opportunities in the region.
The advisor to the Ng?wh? Marae komiti, Chris Webster, said for Top Energy to acknowledge the kaitiakitanga (guardianship) role that Ng?ti Rangi played shows that it really respected the mana of the hap?. The decision on whether Top Energy would be given consent to carry out its joint project with Ng?wh? Marae was expected to be made before the end of September.
The 25 MW geothermal power plant could be in operation in about five to six years time.
Source: Radio NZ
