Genesis Energy Tekapo Hydroelectric Scheme
Keep up to date with the resource consent applications from Genesis Energy for the Tekapo Hydroelectric Scheme.
Current status: The Genesis application with us was withdrawn. It was then considered under the Fast-track Approvals Act, and the expert panel granted the consent on 3 November 2025. More information can be found on the Fast-track website.
Proposal summary
On 18 July 2023, we received two resource consent applications from Genesis Energy to continue the operation of its hydroelectric scheme in the Mackenzie District. This involves renewing existing consents to take, use, dam and divert surface water, and to discharge contaminants to water.
The applications are for controlled activities, meaning they must be granted. It is the proposed conditions of the consents that will be the focus of the application process. The applications will now be audited along with any associated technical and scientific reports.
Genesis Energy has requested public notification.
Timeline
Applications lodged
Applications being processed
Public notification
Submissions close
Hearing
Decision
Background
Our team completed the initial audit of Genesis Energy's applications, finding there are areas where we require further information to fully understand the potential effects of the proposal.
This is a normal part of our consideration process, especially for significant proposals such as this.
On 5 October 2023 we asked Genesis Energy to provide further information on the scheme’s potential effects on:
- surface water bodies and ecology
- groundwater and wetlands
- economic factors
- climate change
- the plans for mitigation measures, off-setting and compensation.
Genesis has asked for an extension to timeframes to provide the further information requested.
View hydroelectric schemes in the Tekapo district
Resource consent applications and documentation
Read all the relevant consent documentation for Genesis Energy’s applications, and about the consents to be renewed:
What happens next?
The next stage of the application process is public notification. This is when the public can have their say on how the Tekapo Hydroelectric Scheme operates.
We will notify the public when submissions open. You can find out how to make a submission – which gives your views on the application – on our Notification and submission process webpage.
A hearing will take place for these consent applications if submitters indicate on the submission form, their wish to be heard, can speak. The details of when and where the hearing will take place, and who the hearing commissioners are, are yet to be confirmed. We will provide details for the hearing on this page once it is confirmed.