Media Release
11 October 2007

Affordability A Crucial Issue For Energy Strategy

New Zealand First energy spokesperson Peter Brown has welcomed some of the Government’s proposed initiatives to ensure long term security of electricity supply for consumers but is concerned about increasing electricity costs arising from the introduction of emissions trading.

“Electricity is already unaffordable for many New Zealand households. New Zealand First has long advocated the need for security of supply, a competitive pricing system and environmental responsibility. We are concerned, therefore, that the move towards a low emissions energy system is going to hit the pockets of consumers hard.

"New Zealand First supports the proposal to introduce amendments to the Electricity Industry Reform Amendment to remove barriers to competition in the electricity market and moves towards establishing more flexible and secure gas supply arrangements. Such initiatives should help increase the ability for suppliers to provide reliable and competitively priced electricity to consumers.

"In addition to this, New Zealand First hopes that the Government will make necessary amendments to the Resource Management Act as part of their proposed development of national guidance on electricity transmission. We would like to see amendments that ensure a more rapid consents process for infrastructure projects which create alternative electricity generation, while ensuring that local input is preserved.

"Having been an ardent campaigner of the need for our trade to be served by energy efficient shipping services, the proposed development of a shipping strategy to move freight is certainly supported by New Zealand First.

"The Government’s energy strategy has some merits, but it is crucial that a balanced approach is taken. An effective and comprehensive long term energy strategy must focus not only on exploring a full range of energy sources to provide improved energy efficiency and greater investment in renewable energy, it must also be affordable,” concluded Mr Brown.

ENDS

© Scoop Media