Windpower offers relief for demands on hydropower

30 April 2001

The current drought is highlighting the problem of having all our eggs in the 'hydro-basket', says Geoff Henderson, Chief Executive, Windflow Technology Ltd.

"We must achieve security of supply by using a diversity of renewable energy sources. Through investment in wind energy New Zealanders can be confident in an alternative source of energy to complement and support the existing hydropower."

"The positive environmental and financial gains offered by wind power are far reaching," he said, "Although New Zealand is labelled 'clean and green', the reality is that a lot more can be done to make this a true statement."

Business and the investment community, he said, needs to make up its mind whether to be part of the solution or part of the problem. "Windflow Technology is determined to be part of the solution."

Mr Henderson believes his innovative, world leading wind turbine design is pivotal for New Zealand's wind power future and intends to trial the first windmill near Gebbies Pass next year.

According to Dr Neil Cherry, Chairman of Windflow Technology, there is potential for local enterprise to take advantage of the company's development.

"Wind turbine technology is of an appropriate scale for most of the manufacturing to be carried out in local companies with the resulting enhancement of local jobs. We have world-class local design and manufacturing facilities that are ready and able to build and install high class wind turbines for local, national and international situations," he said.

Dr Cherry also cited Australia as being an important market for the company as well being the source of some specialist components.

"For us to clean up our air, reduce our greenhouse gas emissions and to maintain and enhance our clean, green reputation, the time is right to invest in locally manufactured wind turbines to produce locally generated wind powered electricity."