Solar Farm – Flood Risk Study

PROJECT BRIEF

Metis was engaged by Kiwi Solar Farms to assess flood risk at a site they were considering for development of a large solar farm it the Waikato region. The site was adjacent to the Piako River and at potentially significant risk of flooding.

OUR APPROACH

• Reviewed site topography and flood mechanisms
• Obtained relevant background flood data from Waikato Regional Council
• Review and summarise relevant local, regional and national policy and guidance documents
• Analysed flood level data to derive potential flood depth maps for available scenarios
• Reviewed upstream stormwater runoff, identified overland flow paths, site entry points and impacts on proposals
• Make recommendations for site development footprint and relocation of key infrastructure to manage flood risk
  

PROJECT OUTCOMES

Kiwi Solar Farms benefited from Metis’ work in several ways.

• Detailed understanding of flood risk to the site from the Piako River and overland flow from upstream properties
• Assessment of potential flood impacts on proposed site layout and recommended changes to better manage risks
• Understanding of relevant compliance requirements for flood risk
• Informed overall site feasibility assessment