22 March 2007

Media Release

Pohokura great news for domestic and other consumers on the reticulated network

The Gas Association applauds the commissioning of the offshore wells at the Pohokura gasfield, Michael Cummings, the chairman of the Association said.

This further enhances the flows from Pohokura, following the commissioning of the onshore wells last year.

“This is an important achievement for the downstream industry and reinforces to the public the degree to which New Zealanders can be assured that we have plenty of gas for our residential and commercial users for the foreseeable future.

“The value of this is substantial for New Zealand, and the position will be further strengthened when the Kupe gasfield comes onstream in a couple of years time as expected.” Michael continued.

“Natural gas has a significant and increasing role to play as the country looks to be cleaner and greener. It is one of the only consistently available fuels which can help New Zealand on the path to a low-carbon economy.

“It is an ideal fuel to partner with renewables, particularly solar energy.

“Importantly, it also provides energy security and energy diversity advantages. Natural gas can offset electricity demands and reduce the strain on electricity generation, transmission and distribution systems.

“The coming onstream of the Pohokura offshore wells is great news all around,” Michael said.

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