The Wind Energy Association says the Palmerston North joint local authority Commissioners cannot excuse their decision on Allco Wind Energy’s Motorimu wind farm by saying there are other wind farm options
Wind Energy Association (NZWEA) chief executive Fraser Clark said the Commissioners cannot escape the reality that their decision has lowered New Zealand’s capacity for sustainable electricity generation.
“It is not good enough for the Commissioners to shrug off their obligation to consider the national and environmental benefits of wind farms by saying they could be built somewhere else.
“Apart from the three wind farms now almost complete, all other projects are just drawing board ideas.
“The reality is that the Commissioners’ decision lowers New Zealand’s wind generation potential. That means we are going to continue to be reliant on the thermal generation that has played a significant role in our increasing carbon emissions.
“By siding with the local objectors the decision has reduced the Government’s ability to meet renewables generation targets, and pushed the need for clean energy development onto another site and another community,” Mr Clark said.
He said the decision demonstrated the urgent need for more leadership from the Government to help guide and direct local authorities when considering renewable energy projects.
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