Stage set for New Zealand’s landmark energy strategy

The New Zealand Energy Strategy will tie together the comprehensive programme of work already underway to transition Aotearoa New Zealand to a more renewable energy system. The Terms of Reference outlines further detail on how the Strategy will be developed to address strategic challenges in the energy sector, and signal pathways away from fossil fuels.

The Strategy will have the following high-level objectives:

• Energy affordability and energy equity for consumers
• Our energy system transitions at the pace and scale required to support a net zero 2050
• Energy supply is secure and reliable, including as we adapt to the effects of climate change and in the face of global shocks
• Our energy system supports economic development and productivity growth aligned with the transition.

The Energy Strategy was one of the main recommendations from the Climate Change Commission’s advice Ināia tonu nei: a low emissions future for Aotearoa, and was committed to in the government’s Emissions Reduction Plan (ERP) released in May. It will be developed by MBIE over the next 2 years, with the final strategy due in December 2024.

In 2020, emissions from energy made up 40% of Aotearoa’s total gross emissions. The Government has set a target that 50% of total energy consumption will come from renewable sources by 2035.

For more information see:

New Zealand Energy Strategy

Read the Minister’s press release:

Stage set for Government’s landmark energy strategy(external link) — Beehive