Other comments
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Submitters wanted to see more information and analysis
Submitters identified several other issues and topics they considered should be explored further in the next discussion document, including:
- Transition pathways and likely timeframes
- More comprehensive options analysis
- More specific information about the impact of different pathways on businesses, GDP, jobs, exports.
- More detailed assessment of alternative technologies, eg the marginal abatement cost of renewable gases and CCUS.
Submitters indicated that the above information should be obtained through data collection and engagement with businesses.
There are opportunities for better coordination and engagement
Some submitters thought the Issues Paper was influenced too heavily by the gas industry. Others called on the Government to seek more gas industry input.
A few called on the Government to integrate better with other agencies, such as the Ministry for the Environment, or to establish a new Ministry to coordinate energy and climate change actions, following examples in the United Kingdom and Australia.
Engagement with Māori should be at the forefront of the gas and wider energy transition
A few submitters emphasised the importance of achieving consent from local communities, particularly Māori, for regional energy projects. They saw this engagement as crucial because it acknowledges land rights and results in the best outcomes for communities. They saw a role for Government in working with local communities and iwi, and also in helping to train international developers in things like iwi relationship building.
The Gas Transition Plan should give more consideration to the workforce
A few submitters commented that implications for the gas workforce require further investigation and planning, including looking at immigration and education settings, and connecting oil and gas workers with other opportunities. For example, Powerco said that:
“a vibrant renewable gas industry has the potential to create up to 6,000 regional jobs.”
Some believed an energy strategy should be in place before making a Gas Transition Plan
Some submitters thought that it did not make sense to put a Gas Transition Plan out before an energy strategy. They believed it was necessary to first consider domestic manufacturing sector, circular economy, jobs, workforce, and regions as part of a broader energy strategy.