Sustainable energy solutions gaining momentum

The Green Party today welcomed a Greenpeace report that outlined a strategy for New Zealanders to 'Switch on to Renewable Energy'.

Ms Fitzsimons said it was encouraging that the energy debate is moving beyond political point-scoring and towards solutions to ensure New Zealand does not have to endure future energy crises.

"We strongly support Greenpeace's calls for renewable energy and an environmentally sustainable energy focus," said Ms Fitzsimons.

"It is a timely reminder that a solution to this and future energy crises will be found by focusing on the long-term interests of New Zealand. It won't be found by laying blame with poor decisions of the past, made by politicians who are no longer part of the political landscape.

"Climate change is with us now and we need to shift from a culture of energy waste, which is environmentally damaging, towards an energy-conscious sustainable future."

Ms Fitzsimons endorsed today's announcement by Trustpower to more than double the capacity of its Tararua wind farm by adding 55 new turbines to the existing 48.

"Trustpower has led the way in New Zealand with, so far, the largest wind farm in the Southern Hemisphere. Last week Meridian announced an even larger project. We are pleased to see these companies pursuing this technology."

"It is heartening to see a balance to the shrill short-termism exhibited by the coal industry and others who think a solution lies in fossil fuel. Coal should stay where it belongs - under the ground.

"The last thing that the New Zealand economy and environment needs are more fossil-fuelled power stations. Any new fossil-fuelled stations built now would not be available for another two years at the earliest.

"In that time we can achieve much more through smart use of energy and continued development of renewable resources."

The Greenpeace report, 'Pathway to a Renewable Energy Future,' can be found at www.greenpeace.org.nz

The Green Party's database of documents, speeches and releases on energy can by found at http://www.greens.org.nz/docs/category.asp?cat=75

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