Joining forces

Genesis Energy is partnering with Tilt Renewables to develop a 100 MW wind farm at Waverley on the Taranaki coast. Chief executive Marc England said the deal with Tilt, still be to finalised, could see construction beginning next year. “The electricity sector will play a critical role in the decarbonisation of higher emission sectors such as transportation and industrial processing,” he said. “This exciting project will play a role as we meet predicted increases in demand for renewable energy.” Genesis is the country’s biggest electricity and gas retailer. It is also the largest generator using coal and gas, but also operates the Waikaremoana, Tongariro and Tekapo hydro schemes. The Hau Nui wind farm near Martinborough is its only other wind asset. England said Genesis, which aims to stop burning coal at Huntly by 2030, is committed to help transition the country to a lower-carbon economy. The terms signed for the project are a big step in increasing generation from renewables.