Meridian prepares for giant hydro

By Chris Hutching

Friday 16th August 2002

Meridian Energy fired the latest salvo this week in a charm offensive aimed at reducing opposition to its $1.1 billion Project Aqua hydroelectric generation and irrigation scheme - the biggest Think Big project since the Benmore Dam was built half a century ago.

Meridian's offensive was helped by Canterbury Employers' Chamber of Commerce chief executive Peter Townsend, who has set up the country's first Regional Electricity Group.

Meridian has committed funds to help pay for communications and other expenses of the Regional Electricity Group.

The catch-phrase from Mr Townsend and Meridian Energy chief executive Keith Turner at a midweek briefing to announce the launch of the group was "security of supply."

Messrs Townsend and Turner highlighted the threat of power shortages last year as a wake-up call to businesses that they must learn to act smarter in terms of power savings and management.

Under initial proposals the scheme would divert about three-quarters of the 350-cumec flow of the lower Waitaki River, a prospect that has alarmed recreational user groups. Meridian has commissioned studies that conclude the reduced flow would actually be helpful for the aquatic life.

Comments from our readers

No comments yet