July 18, 2008
New Zealand
New Zealand
A supplier of turbines for a planned wind farm at the Turitea Reserve is yet to be signed up, but Mighty River Power has confirmed three-bladed turbines will be used if the project goes ahead.
The state-owned enterprise announced this week it will seek resource consents to build up to 131 turbines in the Turitea water catchment and neighbouring properties, 11 kilometres south-east of Palmerston North. Three independent commissioners are expected to hear the case.
Palmerston North Mayor Jono Naylor said the city council could not influence the consent process.
“Of course, if the process results in a consent being granted to Mighty River Power, the council does have an agreement to lease some land to the company to accommodate turbines and access to them,” he said.
“The proceeds of these rentals will, if the consents are granted, be used to develop an extensive eco-park for the enjoyment of residents in the wider Manawatu district.”
The High Court ruled last year the reserve could be used for renewable electricity generation.
Mighty River Power is hosting information days about the project at the Palmerston North Convention Centre over the next two weeks.
By Grant Miller
18 July 2008
URL to article: https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2008/07/18/approval-sought-for-turitea-turbines/