Source: Energy Resources Aotearoa
Energy Resources Aotearoa is alarmed at high wholesale energy prices and the impacts these prices have on Kiwis.
We have joined a collective of industry bodies representing New Zealand’s energy and resources sector and written to all political party leaders, calling for cross-party consensus on energy and resources policy.
The absence of bipartisanship has created massive sovereign risk for potential investors at the very time we need them to invest in our energy security and affordability
Energy Resources Aotearoa Chief Executive John Carnegie says all parties must work together to develop a clear plan for the future that balances our economic and social well-being with our aspirations for long-term environmental sustainability.
“Keeping the lights on, our homes warm, and our factories operating should not be a partisan issue.
Political parties can work together to agree on a framework that secures the energy future for all New Zealanders, regardless of which way the political wind blows.”
Developing a framework that drives informed choices is critical to building the energy future New Zealand needs to thrive, while still ensuring political parties remain focused on balancing the energy trilemma of affordability, reliability, and sustainability.
Carnegie says reducing production to keep the gas and electricity systems functioning isn’t a great way to run an energy system. High prices are symptomatic of deep-seated issues in the gas market and suggest that serious change is required.
“New Zealand has abundant natural gas that can be harnessed to ensure a thriving economy and secure, affordable energy.
“Energy Resources Aotearoa would happily work with any cross-party group looking to urgently rebuild gas reserves, restore confidence in the gas market, and guarantee our intermittent renewables have a reliable backstop when we need it” Carnegie says.
“Together, we can strengthen our energy independence and pave the way for a more resilient energy future for all New Zealanders.”
About Energy Resources Aotearoa
Energy Resources Aotearoa is New Zealand’s peak energy industry body. We represent participants from right across the energy system, providing a strategic sector perspective on energy issues and their adjacent portfolios. For further details about our members and to learn more about Energy Resources Aotearoa’s initiatives, please visit our website: https://www.energyresources.org.nz/
