Renewable Energy
New Zealand has launched its first round of offshore renewable energy feasibility permit applications, offering areas off Taranaki and Waikato/South Auckland in the country’s North Island.
Applications will be accepted by April 19, 2027, the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment said on Monday.
The round sets out the terms, requirements, limitations and mandatory conditions for prospective developers and is the first step under a two-stage permitting process.
It enables developers to secure seven-year permits and undertake feasibility studies for a potential offshore wind project in one of the two designated permit areas.
They will be able to apply for a commercial construction permit with a duration of up to 40 years in a second step of the process.
Applicants should comply with the Offshore Renewable Energy Act 2026 and the Offshore Renewable Energy Regulations 2026. In the round, mandatory requirements were set for engagement with the iwi and hapu people, while successful proponents will have to submit annual engagement reports, participate in review meetings and provide clear information on their planned activities.
New Zealand passed its Offshore Renewable Energy Act 2026 in the summer to create a framework for the development of offshore wind farms, wave energy and tidal energy facilities, offshore and floating solar arrays and systems harnessing geothermal heat.
