Aurecon and Mataura Valley Milk revolutionized Southland’s dairy industry by powering the Gore factory with a 100% steam-based renewable electricity system, earning gold at the 2024 ACE Awards. The project reduces annual carbon emissions by 22,000 tonnes, aligning with New Zealand’s Emission Reduction Plan and setting a benchmark for sustainable industrial operations.
In a pioneering step for sustainable industry in New Zealand, engineering firm Aurecon earned a gold award at the ACE Awards for its collaboration with Mataura Valley Milk. The project involved transforming the dairy processor’s factory in Gore, Southland, by replacing its coal-fired boiler with a high-pressure electrode boiler powered entirely by renewable electricity.
The initiative, called Project Recharge, aims to reduce the factory’s greenhouse gas emissions by 22,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent annually. This innovation directly supports New Zealand’s Emission Reduction Plan, which focuses on creating a low-emissions economy by promoting sustainable and affordable energy systems.
Aurecon, a global engineering, design, and advisory company, played a critical role in the project by identifying and implementing the necessary technology. It also developed the business case and provided project management and governance oversight throughout the construction phase. This effort underscores the company’s commitment to environmental responsibility and technical excellence.
Helen Davidson, chief executive of ACE New Zealand, commended the project for its ambition and complexity. “Aurecon should be exceptionally proud of its work with Mataura Valley Milk, especially navigating the challenges around technology, timelines, and risk. This is an inspiring example of what can be achieved with forward-thinking engineering and collaboration,” Davidson said.
Held on October 24, 2024, at the Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre, the ACE Awards honor exceptional contributions in New Zealand’s built and natural environments. Aurecon was one of six gold award winners, alongside ten silver and three merit recipients. The recognition emphasizes the importance of engineering innovation and consulting expertise in addressing environmental challenges.
Mataura Valley Milk’s plant, located in Southland, is one of the few dairy facilities in the world to operate entirely on steam-powered renewable electricity. This shift not only lowers carbon emissions but also reduces reliance on fossil fuels, aligning with the government’s goal of achieving a net-zero carbon economy by 2050.
The project sets a precedent for other industrial operations in New Zealand and demonstrates how collaborative efforts between companies like Aurecon and local producers can accelerate the country’s energy transition while maintaining economic competitiveness.
