This application is notified under section 17SC of the Conservation Act 1987.
Application details
Applicant
Unison Networks Ltd
Concession applied for
A lease to establish and operate a standalone on-site electricity system.
Location of proposed activity
Taupiri Lookout Site, Whirinaki Te Pua-a-Tane Conservation Park
Map reference: 5720400 North, 1917367 East
Summary of proposal
To replace the existing electricity lines supply with a standalone on-site electricity system, a ‘Remote Supply System’.
The Remote Supply System is predominantly powered by renewable solar energy, using PV panels, with batteries for energy storage, and includes a back-up diesel generator. It is purpose built and each system is optimised to suit the site’s electricity requirements.
For the first year the existing electricity lines to the site will remain in place. During that year the applicant will monitor the performance of the Remote Supply System and, in the event of any issues, will be able to quickly switch back to the lines supply. Following the completion of the year, a decision will be made as to whether the Remote Supply System will become the permanent supply source. If so, the power lines would be removed.
How to submit
Any person or organisation may make a submission in writing to the Director-General on the proposal. The submission must be made on a submission form – download a copy or get one from Whirinaki District Office.
Comment submission form (Word, 236K)
You may make a submission by sending a written or electronic submission to:
Director-General
Department of Conservation
Private Bag 3072
Hamilton 3240.
Attention: Daniel Lincoln, Permissions Advisor
Email: permissionshamilton@doc.govt.nz
Submissions close on Friday 27 July 2018 at 5 pm. Once submitted, submitters' information is subject to the Official Information Act 1982 and may be released under that Act. If you wish to keep any part of your submission confidential, you need to state this in writing when making your submission.
Any person or organisation wishing to be heard in support of his/her submission, must request (within that submission) an opportunity to appear before the Director-General.
DOC comment regarding publicly notified applications
The Minister of Conservation has made no determination regarding the suitability of this proposed concession on public conservation land. This public notification should not be interpreted as an intention on the part of the Minister of Conservation to grant the proposed concession.
Hearing details
If a hearing is required, it is likely to occur on the week starting 30 July 2018.
Decision
When a decision on the application is made it will be posted on this page.