Planned geothermal aquaculture venture in NZ likely not to proceed
Te Mihi geothermal plant, New Zealand (source: Contact Energy)
Alexander Richter
23 Mar 2016
A geothermal aquaculture venture planned in proximity to a geothermal plant by Contact Energy in New Zealand is likely not to proceed.
Following a release by New Zealand based Contact Energy, an aquaculture venture planned in proximity to a geothermal plant of the company is likely not to proceed.
Contact Energy has now decided not to to extend deadline in a commercial agreement with Golden Harvest Aquaculture to lease land and provide geothermal heat for the carp venture. This will likely result in the farm not proceeding.
Mike Dunstall, Contact’s Wairakei-based General Manager of Geothermal Resources and Development, said: “Having carefully considered the feedback from the community, local and national authorities, iwi, hapu and business partners, we have decided not to extend our commercial agreement with Golden Harvest Aquaculture beyond a shortly-approaching deadline, where the venture is required to have all necessary approvals and permits.” “This decision has been a difficult one for Contact.
As with any commercial venture, we always aim to balance and respect the interests of our communities, support our business partners, operate in a sustainable manner, and maximise the value and use of the resources that we manage.”
“Contact saw merit in exploring the carp farm project due to the promised creation of around 20 jobs, the new economic activity for the region and improved efficiency of use of geothermal energy.” “However, as a sustainable and responsible company we know the importance of robust and open debates on issues. It’s clear to us, based on the concerns raised about the carp farm, that there’s still a way to go to resolve questions about any proposed aquaculture ventures in the region.”
Source: Contact Energy release via PublicNow
