Annual Report 2026

Bringing power home to Maungatapere

Northpower marked a significant milestone in December 2025 as we broke ground on our second community owned solar farm at Maungatapere – another step forward in building a more resilient and sustainable energy future for Northland.

Following the successful build of Te Puna Mauri ō Omaru, Puna Komura solar farm represents the next phase in our renewable generation programme. A whakawātea (blessing) was held with local hapu Te Parawhau to mark the beginning of construction.

Puna Komaru, gifted its name by local hapu Te Parawhau, reflects the deep connection between place, people and renewable energy. Meaning “the source of solar energy”, the name acknowledges both the whenua and the role this project will play in supporting the region’s energy needs.

Once complete, the Maungatapere solar farm will generate around 27GWh of electricity each year with a capacity of 18MW – enough to power approximately 3,800 homes.

Guided by kaitiakitanga, we have worked closely with Te Parawhau throughout planning, design and construction. Protecting cultural, historical and environmental values has been central to the project, including the preservation of volcanic stone walls, careful land management and the planting of 12,000 native plants to enhance the surrounding wetland environment.

Construction began in March 2026, with commissioning expected by December 2026. Together with Te Puna Mauri ō Omaru in Ruawai, Puna Komaru strengthens our renewable energy portfolio – bringing clean energy closer to home and delivering long term value for Northland communities.

 

More enabling generation case studies and articles...

Investing in solar power for Northland

Accelerating solar infrastructure delivery, Northpower expanded Te Puna Mauri ō Omaru while engaging communities in renewable electrification.

Puna Komaru solar farm

In Maungatapere, Northpower is developing solar farm infrastructure, supporting renewable electrification and delivering locally owned clean energy for Northland.

Te Puna Mauri ō Omaru solar farm – Bringing power home

As we invest in renewable generation, our community-owned solar farm Te Puna Mauri ō Omaru powers 3,000 homes per year.