Media Release - Wellington - 8 October 1999

Focus on energy efficiency and conservation welcomed

The Forest and Bird Protection Society today welcomed the emphasis on energy efficiency and conservation in Labour's Energy Policy.

Society spokesperson, Barry Weeber, said an emphasis on energy efficiency and conservation measures was crucial if New Zealand is to respond to the challenges of climate change and continuing increases in the price of oil as demand exceeds supply early in the next century.

"Reducing carbon dioxide emissions will require greater funding for energy efficiency and for the promotion of solar power."

Mr Weeber said New Zealand has failed to develop energy efficiency standards and the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority has been starved of funds.

"Forest and Bird has been calling for nearly 10 years for a greater focus on energy efficiency in Government energy policy."

Mr Weeber said the Society supported Labour's proposals to reduce fixed electricity charges. "High fixed charges have reduced incentives for greater energy efficiency."

"Forest and Bird also welcomes the commitment to consider the re-amalgamation of the three "baby ECNZs" and described the break-up of ECNZ by Energy Minister Max Bradford as one of the most environmentally and economically foolish decisions of recent times."

For further information contact: Barry Weeber (04)385-7374

Barry Weeber
Senior Researcher
Royal Forest and Bird Protection Society

PO Box 631 Wellington New Zealand Phone 64-4-385-7374 Fax 64-4-385-7373 www.forest-bird.org.nz

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