While around 80-85% of our electricity generation is currently from renewable sources, we are reliant on fossil fuels for 99% of transport energy and around 60% of industrial energy.
Across the economy we will need to utilise a mixture of different renewable energy sources, so that we can meet energy demand in the long term and ensure a secure and affordable energy supply.
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Wind
High average wind speeds make wind an abundant energy source in New Zealand, and its use is projected to increase significantly.
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Solar
Solar panels can be installed almost anywhere energy is needed, and the technology is becoming increasingly commercially viable.
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Hydro
A reliable and controllable energy source, hydro generation provides the backbone of New Zealand’s electricity system.
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Geothermal
New Zealand has an abundant supply of geothermal energy because we are located on the boundary between two tectonic plates.
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Biomass
Biomass is a low emissions renewable energy source. Replacing coal with biomass in a boiler can reduce overall carbon emissions by up to 99%.
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Green hydrogen
Green hydrogen is a clean energy carrier that could play a role in the future low-emissions energy mix.