There's hope that the Government's plan to fast-track consents will speed up the production of independently created windfarms- eventually leading to cheaper electricity.

The new regime gives ministers the final say to sign off on initiatives it considers to be of regional or national significance.

Ventus Energy CEO Glenn Starr says shorter consenting timeframes will allow the company to compete with other generator retailers. 

"As an independent, it's difficult to keep everything running smoothly through the consent procuress and development process."

LISTEN ABOVE

• Government introduces new bill to speed up major projects
• NZ First's Shane Jones says fast-tracking infrastructure will 'modernise nation'
• Environmental groups condemn Government’s proposal to introduce ‘fast track’ consents bill, labels it a war on nature