Scoop has an Ethical Paywall
Energy Generators, Retailers, Lines Companies Join Forces To Back Transition Plan
Nona Pelletier, Senior Business Reporter
Energy sector leaders are backing the establishment of an energy transition framework aimed at ensuring energy remains secure and affordable, while supporting a high-growth economy.
The newly established Energy Transition Framework's members include generators, retailers, lines and distribution companies, as well as independent consumer and advisory representatives and regulators acting as observers.
Christchurch-based Orion chief executive Nigel Barbour, inaugural framework chair, said the focus was on industry cooperation to ensure the resilience and reliability of services through the transition to 100 percent renewable energy.
"The way we power New Zealand is changing rapidly. That means our energy system must change too. Given what's at stake, it's crucial the sector comes together to tackle the key challenges.
"Aotearoa has an incredible renewable energy advantage, and we need to make the most of it.
"But we also need to plan for when the sun doesn't shine, the wind doesn't blow, or the lakes are low. A least-cost, reliable transition is key to keeping the lights on, homes warm, and Kiwi businesses operating at their full potential."
Barbour said a key principle underpinning the framework was a desire to provide greater transparency on progress the sector was making, as well as reducing confusion around the energy transition.
He said it was essential to close the knowledge gap and invest in smart infrastructure.
"These are complex issues that require whole-of-system thinking. By bringing together industry expertise, independent advice, and enabling regulation, the framework helps us connect the dots and have better conversations about our shared energy future.
"Changing an entire energy system, and the way we use it, is no easy task. It's going to affect all aspects of our life from how we power our homes and businesses to how we get around, so we need to make sure we're giving people the right information to make the right decisions for them."
Major Electricity Users' Group executive director Karen Boyes said the framework had several key objectives, including accelerating renewables development and ensuring electricity was affordable.
"It is essential that the framework applies a consumer-centric lens to all its work, supporting regional employers and businesses across the country to prosper during the energy transition.
"The framework's ambitions and direction are sound, and we look forward to it complementing the government's actions already underway with the Electricity Authority and Commerce Commission's energy competition taskforce and the government's review of the performance of electricity markets."
RNZ
New Zealand's public broadcaster, providing comprehensive NZ news and current affairs, specialist audio features and documentaries.
Radio New Zealand is a Crown entity established under the Radio New Zealand Act 1995. Radio New Zealand News are vital elements in our programming, providing impartial news and information to New Zealanders every day. Radio New Zealand (RNZ) provides listeners with exciting and independent radio programmes in accordance with the Radio New Zealand Charter.
Broadcasting Standards Authority: Inaccurate 1News Reporting On Football Violence Breached Broadcasting Standards
Better Taxes for a Better Future: $1b Cut In Budget Operating Allowance ‘Unnecessary And Damaging’
Transport Well NZ: Transport Well New Zealand Charitable Trust - A Vision For The Entire Sector
KiwiRail: Auckland Rail Network Reopens After Successful Upgrades
ChargeNet: EV infrastructure co-funding model welcomed
NZ Trucking Association: TruckSafe New Zealand Launches | A Game-Changer For Heavy Vehicle Safety And Compliance