Meridian Energy, New Zealand’s largest electricity generator, has developed the Te Apiti Wind Farm on over 1,000 hectares of farmland on the North Island. The project comprises 55 1.65 MW Vestas wind-turbines with a total capacity of approximately 90 MW. Construction began in 2003 with the first electricity delivered to the national grid in July 2004. The wind farm meets the annual power needs of around 45,000 households.

Secondary benefits

• Reducing rural emigration by providing additional income to farmers;
• Job opportunities for 100 local contractors during project construction;
• As the first of its kind in the country, this project demonstrates the economic viability of Emission Reduction Mechanism Project in New Zealand.

Standard

This project is registered under the Gold Standard (GS) Voluntary Emission Reduction standard. Gold Standard VERs are recorded in the Gold Standard VER Registry. The Gold Standard ensures additional environmental and social benefits at the local level.

Baseline Methodology

The emissions reductions associated with this project and the baseline scenario (that is, what would have happened without the implementation of this project) were determined according to grid information data published by New Zealand’s Ministry of Economic Development. The baseline approach was verified by an independent Designated Operational Entity, accredited by the UN. For this project the respected Norwegian company DNV validated the baseline methodology. The project has also been validated by the Gold Standard Foundation and has won the support of the NGO community.

Additionality

The additionality of the project was validated by the New Zealand government, Gold Standard and independent verification by the Norwegian company DNV. The project goes well beyond the legal requirements needed to demonstrate additionality.

Rationale

The majority of New Zealand’s electricity is produced on the South Island, while the population is concentrated on the North Island. By developing this project close to consumers, this wind-farm reduces energy lost during transportation. In addition, the project has achieved Gold Standard CDM status, which ensures the highest level of environmental and social benefits at the local level, such as creation of employment opportunities as a result of the project.

Buy Gold Standard VERs from this project

To purchase Gold Standard VERs from this project you can:

• Log on to Xpress (for registered users only or register now)
• Or contact us directly at: carbon@rwe.com