Making Renewable Energy Work for New Zealand
What’s happening in this area?
February 2008
Recent strategies
Two relevant strategies were published in 2007 provide a strong focus on renewable energy through vision and targets.
New Zealand Energy Strategy (NZES)
The energy vision for New Zealand outlined in the NZES is, “A reliable and resilient system delivering New Zealand sustainable, low emissions energy services.”
New Zealand Energy Strategy on the Ministry of Economic Development website
New Zealand Energy Efficiency and Conservation Strategy (NZEECS)
This strategy outlines many of the specific steps and initiatives that will be taken to help implement the NZES direction and targets.
New Zealand Energy Efficiency and Conservation Strategy on the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority website
Piloting and commercialisation
These government initiatives will make it easier for new renewable energy technologies to be used in industry:
- Biofuels sales obligation - Legislation is currently before Parliament to require oil companies to progressively increase their biofuel sales. They must sell 3.4% biofuels by 2012.
- Low-Carbon Energy Technologies Fund – The government has set aside $4 million yearly for three years to support piloting new low-carbon energy technologies, initially focusing on liquid biofuels. The fund will be administered by the Foundation for Research Science and Technology and the first funding will be available from 1 July 2008.
- Marine Energy Deployment Fund – This fund supports the deployment of marine energy devices. The fund comprises $2 million yearly for four years and is administered by the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA). Applications for the first round of funding close on 29 February 2008.