Meridian Energy wins go-ahead for 120 MW solar‑storage park as retail sales climb 8.2%

Meridian Energy has received regulatory approval to build the Bunnythorpe Energy Park in New Zealand's North Island. The hybrid project will combine a 120‑MW solar photovoltaic facility with a battery energy storage system, expected to generate about 225 GWh annually and support grid stability near Palmerston North. The development is part of the company's NZD 3 billion plan to expand renewable capacity through 2030.

In the same period, the utility reported an 8.2% year‑on‑year increase in April retail sales volumes, driven by stronger customer demand and higher hydro storage inflows, indicating growing consumer engagement with its energy offerings.