25 May 2011

New research shows that natural gas and LPG are popular choices for household heating in New Zealand.

Gas New Zealand spokesperson, Ray Ferner, says the research shows that 44 percent of households in the Wellington, Manawatu, Wanganui, Taranaki and Hawke’s Bay areas use either natural gas or LPG for their home heating energy source.

“Electricity is still the most widely-used energy source when it comes to home heating (55% of households), but gas is certainly growing in popularity,” Mr Ferner said.

“It’s interesting that gas is still such a popular home heating energy source, especially when you consider the plethora of advertising done by the heat pump industry.

“That’s the beauty of gas – it’s still so popular despite the intense competition,” Mr Ferner said.

The research was commissioned by electricity and gas company, Powerco.

Mr Ferner said some 350,000 New Zealand homes are now connected to either natural gas or LPG. Gas is also commonly installed in the majority of new houses that are built.

The research also shows that, of the five regions surveyed, Wellingtonians are the biggest users of gas, followed by Manawatu, Wanganui, Taranaki and Hawke’s Bay.

Gas New Zealand is an advocacy group established to encourage the direct use of gas by New Zealand households and small business. See thebeautyofgas.co.nz

ENDS

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