Genesis Energy consent applications for the Tekapo Hydroelectric Scheme
Keep up to date with the resource consent applications from Genesis Energy for the Tekapo Hydroelectric Scheme.
You can find all the relevant consent documentation for these applications at the links below.
Timeline
18 July – Resource consent applications received
14 August – resource consents accepted for processing.
Applications being audited
Public notification
Submissions close
Pre-circulation of evidence
Hearing
Request for further information
Our team have completed the initial audit of Genesis Energy's applications. 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 have 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, and
- the plans for mitigation measures, off-setting and compensation.
Genesis Energy have 15 working days to respond to this request.
View hydroelectric schemes in the Tekapo district
"Once we have received a response, we will continue to process the applications," said Aurora Grant, consents planning manager.
"It’s important the community understand these applications are for controlled activities which means they must be granted — it’s the conditions of the consents that are under consideration."
Making submissions
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 ‘Make a submission’ webpage.
Hearing information
A hearing will take place for these consent applications. This is where submitters who wish to be heard can speak.
The details of when and where the hearing will take place, and who the hearing commissioners are, is yet to be confirmed.
We will provide details for the hearing on this page once it is confirmed.
Read more general information on the consent application process under the Resource Management Act (RMA).
Previous stages
18 July - Applications received~~
On 18 July, we received two resource consent applications from Genesis Energy to continue the operation of its hydroelectric scheme in the Mackenzie District.
These applications are for controlled activities which means they must be granted. It is the proposed conditions that will be the focus of processing the applications.
Consent planning manager Aurora Grant said we will now audit the applications to ensure there is enough information to be able to process them.
"Our consent planners and experts will audit the applications and any associated technical and scientific reports in detail.
"The applicant has requested public notification. Once we have completed the required audits, the proposal will be notified and open for public submission. Members of the community will be able to make submissions and have their say during this part of the process."