MainPower New Zealand Ltd’s Mt Cass Wind Farm Project is transitioning to an alternative delivery model for the construction of Mt Cass Wind Farm near Waipara in North Canterbury.

Construction was expected to be completed under a single turnkey Engineer, Procure & Construct (EPC) contract with General Electric, however this model is proving uneconomic in the current environment particularly due to the effects and risks associated with COVID-19.

“Cost increases were anticipated, but not at the level we have seen under an EPC contract. We remain confident in the project and are now focusing on a multi-contract model for construction, supply and installation,” explained MainPower New Zealand Chief Executive, Andy Lester.

“Without a doubt, New Zealand needs additional generation to meet the growing electricity demands of a decarbonising economy. Demand is ramping up quickly and we want to meet that demand with renewable energy. Completing due diligence on an alternative delivery model will have an impact on the financial close and commissioning dates of the Mt Cass Wind Farm but the project team will be working hard to keep these to a minimum.” says Lester.

MainPower will continue to provide updates on the Mt Cass Wind Farm, including revised timeframes, as the project progresses.