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Clarus is committed to pursuing clean energy solutions to help New Zealand reach net zero carbon by 2050. This hub provides information, updates and our latest developments as we look to the future of renewable gas.

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Ceremony heralds start of construction on New Zealand’s largest solar farm project

Construction on New Zealand’s largest solar farm project officially began today at Te Aroha in Waikato, marking a significant milestone for the country’s renewable energy future.

Minister for Energy and Climate Change, Hon. Simon Watts, joined guests on site for a soil-turning ceremony for the project, a joint venture between Harmony Energy Limited and Clarus company, First Renewables.

6 results found here
  • bike jumping over hill
    • Solar
    • Blog

    Tauhei Solar Farm supports Te Miro Mountain Bike Park with Solar Installation

    The Tauhei Solar Farm project is proud to support Te Miro Mountain Bike Club with the installation of a new solar panel system for the club’s trail maintenance hub. Located near Morrinsville, the club is a volunteer-run organisation dedicated to building and maintaining an extensive network of trails for riders of all skill levels.

  • SIte Blessing Team blog
    • Solar

    Karakia ceremony supports cultural safety at Tauhei Solar Farm

    First Renewables, part of Clarus and Harmony Energy held a special Karakia ceremony early on Monday morning, 10 March 2025. Performed by Norm Hill, representing Ngāti Rāhiri Tumutumu and Ngāti Hauā as mana whenua, the ceremony took place to ensure the site culturally safe before ground works commenced.

  • iStock 1281948451 Lowpes
    • Solar
    • Media releases

    Harmony Energy and First Renewables JV successfully complete financial close on New Zealand’s largest solar farm

    Harmony Energy and Clarus company, First Renewables have approved the final investment for the Tauhei Solar Farm project and successfully completed financial close, with construction set to begin this year.

  • James Irvine
    • Solar
    • Blog

    James Irvine: Focused on the toughest emissions problems

    What brings an international leader in renewable energy to move from Europe to New Plymouth? For James Irvine and his family, it was a combination of an appealing job offer, the opportunity to meaningfully fight climate change, and the fabulous Taranaki lifestyle.

  • iStock 1281948451 Lowpes
    • Solar
    • Media releases

    Just how big will the Tauhei Solar Farm be?

    This year, construction is expected to start on the Tauhei Solar Farm, a joint venture between First Renewables (a Clarus company) and Harmony Energy. Located in Te Aroha, the Tauhei Solar Farm at the time of commissioning, is anticipated to be New Zealand’s largest solar farm at 200 megawatts.

  • Solar panels with sheep in Belgium
    • Solar
    • Blog

    Why we’re excited about solar energy

    First Renewables, a Clarus company and Harmony Energy announced early in 2024 that they will develop and own Tauhei Solar Farm. At the time of commissioning in 2026, it is expected to be New Zealand’s largest solar generation site.

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