Offshore Renewable Energy Forum in Hawera this March

The 2024 Offshore Renewable Energy Forum at the TSB Hub, Hawera, on March 20-21, will be hosted by future energy centre Ara Ake and Te Puna Umanga Venture Taranaki.

The fourth offshore energy event since 2020, it aims to bring together iwi, key sector stakeholders and the broader community to discuss opportunities offshore renewables have for New Zealand.

This year’s theme is about recognising the interconnectivity of a future energy ecosystem, bringing together discussions about social licence, energy security, infrastructure, technology, consumer equity and job creation.

“At past forum’s we’ve discussed the rapid growth in offshore renewables and where New Zealand could be placed in this global movement,” says Ara Ake offshore renewables lead Jonathan Young.

The two-day forum will cover international and domestic updates, social licence considerations, environmental factors, regulation, infrastructure, and industry capability.

“Renewable energy is a key part of our region’s long-term vision for a resilient, high-value, low-emissions economy,” says Te Puna Umanga Venture Taranaki chief executive Kelvin Wright.

“To realise this vision, and to make the most of both our industry expertise and immense offshore wind resource, we need strong collaboration between key stakeholders.

“This forum provides a critical platform to do that,” says Wright.

“We’re excited to welcome new and returning industry players to Taranaki, including government, community and Iwi representation, to progress the conversation.”

More than 35 domestic and international speakers attended last year’s forum.

Attendees this year can join the conversation in person or online.

Contact Matt Lamb at matt@venture.org.nz if you are a tertiary student wishing to attend this event for free registration.

Click here for more information or visit www.eventbrite.co.nz for tickets.