Renewable energy use reaches record levels

The proportion of renewable energy used in New Zealand continues to reach record levels.

The finding was released in the annual Energy in New Zealand report, which shows that renewable energy provided 40.1% of New Zealand’s total primary energy supply in 2015.

“This is a record high, placing us third in the world behind other renewable superpowers Iceland and Norway,” says energy and resources minister Simon Bridges.

The report also shows that the price of all fuel types decreased in 2015, including residential electricity which decreased for the first time in 15 years.

“In terms of electricity, 80.8% came from renewable sources in 2015, mainly due to increased geothermal generation. This is the highest renewable contribution in 20 years and shows we are well on the way to meeting our target of 90% renewable electricity by 2025,” says Bridges.

“The government continues to work on new energy targets and this growth in our renewable advantage is very encouraging as we think about what New Zealand’s energy future should look like in the transition to a lower carbon economy.”

Bridges points out that as the world transitions to a low carbon future, energy diversity is key to achieving energy security, affordability, and environmental sustainability.

The annual Energy in New Zealand report highlights key trends in energy supply, demand and pricing for the 2015 calendar year.

ENZ can be viewed here.