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Chapman Tripp advised Mercury on the final stage of the development of New Zealand’s largest wind farm.
Mercury announced last week that it had committed to building the remaining 27 consented turbines at Turitea near Palmerston North in a further $208m investment. It adds to the 33-turbine project ($256m investment) that was announced earlier this year.
The Chapman Tripp team was led by partner Hamish Bolland and senior associate Kylie Mutch on construction, together with senior associate Lauren Curtayne and senior solicitor Jeryl-Lynn Govender on long-term operation and maintenance. The team advised Mercury on its contracts with supplier Vestas-New Zealand Wind Technology Limited to construct and maintain the combined Turitea wind farm development.
Chapman Tripp worked seamlessly to deliver the project with Mercury’s senior legal counsel Natasha Strong.
Bolland said, “It has been fantastic to help Mercury with its renewable energy strategy. The team was delighted to play a part in this important project which supports New Zealand’s demand for sustainable energy.”
Howard Thomas Mercury’s General Counsel, said, “Right from the outset, Chapman Tripp provided invaluable expert advice, guidance and support during the long process of getting this project over the line.”
Construction for the southern section of the wind farm is due to start this summer. The additional 27 turbines will have a total capacity of 103MW and will generate 370GWh per annum.
