National will reverse, repair poorly planned ban

It’s a dark day for the energy sector now that the Government has rammed through its ban on new offshore exploration, a ban National will reverse, National’s Energy and Resources spokesperson Jonathan Young says.

“The ban was poorly planned and won’t achieve the carbon emission reductions claimed by the Government and may increase emissions. It was made in a policy vacuum, ignoring the advice of officials and industry.

“The next National Government will consult widely on a planned, effective and smooth reduction of emissions to agreed levels. The transition will embrace new technologies, and have measurable environmental and economic outcomes.

“We will support advanced low or zero emission fuels as part of the energy mix of transport and industry in New Zealand. In areas where technology like batteries aren’t immediately suitable, natural gas is likely to be an important fuel during our energy transition.

“We will reach out to build linkages with significant countries and companies who are leading research & development in advanced fuels to ensure we are pursuing best practice and support further R&D in New Zealand.

“We will work to advance reform to enable Carbon Capture and Storage, that will significantly reduce emissions, alongside the industry’s commitment to move towards a low emissions future.

“We will collaborate to develop a cross-sector Energy Strategy aimed at increasing renewables, reducing emissions, managing energy costs, and maintaining energy security.

“We will strive to protect the economy, firm investment certainty, retain skilled people and minimise social disruption. And we will work to diversify the Taranaki economy alongside supporting the petrochemical industry.”

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