Trinasolar, a global leader in smart photovoltaic (PV) and energy storage solutions, has collaborated with Kiwi Solar and Trilect to inaugurate Waikato’s first-ever agrivoltaics project. This initiative marks Trinasolar’s third venture into dual-use agricultural and solar farming in New Zealand.

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Spanning 6.5 hectares, the new solar farm features 5,740 modules equipped with Trinasolar’s advanced Vertex N 720W series modules, which offer best-in-class power output of over 700W and an impressive efficiency rate of 22.5%. The facility is expected to generate approximately 6,000 MWh of clean energy annually, enough to power around 800 local homes.

The project takes a pioneering approach to land utilization, allowing the landowner to continue agricultural activities, such as sheep grazing, beneath the solar panels. This dual-purpose land use optimizes land value and provides additional income streams in rural areas, benefiting the local community.

Edison Zhou, Head of Australia, New Zealand, and the Pacific Islands at Trinasolar Asia Pacific, expressed the company’s commitment to innovation and sustainability in the energy sector. “Our partnership with Kiwi Solar and Trilect on Waikato’s first agrivoltaics project highlights the expertise and on-ground support we provide for every project. With our industry-leading 30-year product warranty, our modules combine cutting-edge technology with durability and peak performance. We are dedicated to ensuring long-term success for this initiative.”

Andrew Beckett, Founder of Kiwi Solar, emphasized the transformative potential of combining solar energy with traditional agriculture. “This project goes beyond generating clean energy; it’s about creating a sustainable future,” Beckett stated. “By integrating solar power with agriculture, we’re optimizing land use and enhancing the economic growth of the Waikato region, providing landowners with new revenue streams while contributing to New Zealand’s clean energy goals.”

With approximately 500 MW of solar capacity currently installed in New Zealand, the potential for growth in the sector is significant. As the country outlines its strategy to achieve 100% renewable energy, projects like this one are crucial to sustaining New Zealand’s clean energy future.

“This initiative underscores the importance of embracing renewable energy in New Zealand,” Beckett added. “As one of the last developed countries to fully adopt solar energy, we’re proud to lead this transition. The subsidy-free nature of this project proves that solar energy is a viable and essential addition to our national energy strategy.