NERI Welcomes Pure Advantage “Green Race” Report

The National Energy Research Institute (NERI) welcomes the release of a report by green growth strategy group Pure Advantage questioning New Zealand’s position in the global green economy.

“New Zealand’s 100% Pure reputation is not only a catchy national brand” says Paul Atkins, Chief Executive of NERI. “It is also a fundamental aspect of our success in the global economy. Upwards of NZ$6 trillion a year is at stake as other countries make huge investment in Green Growth. Our economic competitive advantage is in jeopardy, along with our part of the resulting global trade, if we do not continue to earn our 100% Pure reputation.”

Sustainable energy is at the heart of this Green Growth revolution. The “Green Race” report highlights the need for the advancement of clean energy for New Zealand’s sustainable future, and the real economic benefits we can achieve from an economy powered by clean energy. However, New Zealand is in need of a reality check if it is to grasp the many opportunities offered by the once in a lifetime change to a green economy.

Despite having a goal of 90% of New Zealand’s electricity supply to come from renewable sources by 2025, the most recent New Zealand Energy Strategy (2011) lacked a detailed roadmap as to how this target will be achieved. New Zealand still imports $7 billion worth of petroleum products each year, contributing the significant majority of the total national energy consumption.

Achieving a transition to sustainable energy will take strong, committed leadership and a much more joined-up approach between industry, government and the research community than we have hitherto seen.

Pure Advantage’s report is about starting a discussion on how New Zealand can get its share of the global green economy. “NERI is committed to being part of this discussion,” says Paul Atkins. “NERI’s goal is to stimulate, inform and facilitate New Zealand’s transition to a long-term, sustainable energy future. Whist there will be challenges along the way, New Zealand is very well placed to benefit, and the “Green Race” report is an important step on this pathway.”

Pure Advantage’s next report, a macroeconomic review of New Zealand’s key green growth opportunities, is due later in the year. The report is likely to highlight the significant economic and environmental benefits offered by renewable energy.

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