Foreword
Energy is essential to the way we live. New Zealand's prosperity and welfare depend on having access to reliable and secure supplies of energy at affordable prices. Energy keeps us warm, fuels our transport, powers our economy and connects us to the rest of the world.
Our energy system is a part of the legacy we will leave to our children and our children's children. New Zealanders take pride in our natural environment. Improving how we produce and use energy is central to New Zealand becoming sustainable.
Many of the greenhouse gas emissions that cause climate change are generated in the energy sector. To safeguard our future, New Zealand needs to take steps to reduce our emissions
We in New Zealand have a long tradition of providing much of our energy from local renewable sources. Already, about 70% of our electricity is generated from renewable sources - the third highest level in the developed world. The New Zealand Energy Strategy (NZES) will help us do even better in electricity and make important progress in transport over the next 30-50 years.
The strategy aims to ensure that New Zealanders reap the benefits of a sustainable low emissions energy system which provides our economy with an enduring competitive advantage. I expect this transition to be cheaper in New Zealand than almost any other country in the world.
Our abundant sources of renewable energy mean that New Zealand is already a leader in sustainable energy. This strategy shows how New Zealand can advance towards carbon neutrality. For the first time in our history, since industrial development began in New Zealand, it sets New Zealand on a path which will enable us to sustainably reduce our total CO2 emissions from energy.
New Zealanders are renowned for their ability to develop resourceful, innovative and pioneering solutions. These qualities will be valuable as we find ways to respond to the energy challenges and opportunities of the future. We will protect our environment for future generations, and reinforce the values New Zealanders share.
All New Zealanders have a stake in where our energy comes from, how we use our energy, and the impact our energy choices have on the world around us.
I urge you to read this strategy and its companion action plan, which sets out the actions the government proposes to take to support its vision. I look forward to receiving your feedback on New Zealand's future energy path.
Hon David Parker
Minister of Energy
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