Browns Rock Hydro Generation Proposal

MainPower has been working with Waimakariri Irrigation Limited (WIL) for the past 18 months to investigate a run of river hydro generation scheme at Browns Rock, on the Waimakariri River. 

MainPower has also held discussions with the Waimakariri District Council and affected landowners, and may seek the involvement of further partners as the project evolves.  Discussions have been held to gain an understanding of the perspectives of the parties and to communicate MainPower's intentions. 

To date a number of environmental assessments have been carried out to determine the effects on the river and the surrounding areas.  The studies are positive for the project and MainPower will continue its discussions with key stakeholders to ensure a benefit to all.

Key facts

• A run-of-river renewable hydro scheme
• It would provide around 8MW of local supply
• The electricity would supply the network around Oxford and Cust
• Investigation is a joint venture  between MainPower and Waimakariri Irrigation Limited

Water use and environmental facts

• Water would be diverted from the river, via an existing irrigation canal, to generate power
• The intake would be on the Waimakariri River (4km downstream from the Gorge Bridge)
• Water would be returned to the river around 12km downstream from the Gorge Bridge after passing through the turbines
• The power station would be located between the Waimakariri River and Thongcaster Road
• Minimum flows would be maintained in the stretch of the Waimakariri River between the intake and outfall of the proposed scheme