Shell Endorses Government’s Renewable Energy Plan

Oil Company, Shell New Zealand, endorses the Government’s renewable energy plan – one of the main aims of the draft National Energy Efficiency and Conservation Strategy, announced today.

Shell is at the forefront of the renewables revolution and has made a NZ$ 1 billion global commitment to develop commercially viable alternative energies within five years – specifically solar, wind biomass and also forestry.

Shell New Zealand Chairman, Ed Johnson, says the Government’s desire to increase New Zealand’s environmentally friendly energy sources is commendable and Shell would do all it could to assist in bringing new renewable technologies to this part of the world.

“The major challenge we face is to make renewable technologies affordable for everyone. We are planning on a future where renewable energy makes up a a significant percentage of the world’s energy needs – maybe as much as half by the year 2050.”

Presently Shell’s New Zealand renewables activity is devoted to educational initiatives – notably its solar powered renewables vehicle, the Explorer. The Explorer, which tours major public events and trade shows, is equipped with three solar panels manufactured in Shell’s Dutch factory. These power a variety of everyday objects including a television, a refrigerator and a computer, and give the public a first-hand look at how solar power can be applied to the home.

“We agree with the Government that our energy focus needs to shift to renewable energy sources and that is what Shell New Zealand is trying to do through its educational initiatives.”

Mr Johnson says the Company will be launching another major educational renewables initiative in the next six weeks.

ENDS

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