Govt aims for maximum one-year energy consenting

The Government intends fast-tracking energy project consenting and is seeking support.

Energy and transport minister Simeon Brown outlined his priorities to energy sector representatives during the BusinessNZ Energy Council (BEC) breakfast event, sponsored by Meridian.

He reiterated the focus on electrifying New Zealand – the details of which he says will be revealed soon.

Brown says the Government wants a maximum one-year consenting process for solar, wind and geothermal projects through changes to the Resource Management Act and is working on a fast-track to create a “onestop shop” for consenting.

“We want to ensure that it enables the industry to get the decisions made, that are needed,” says Brown.

“We need your support publicly, but also your help to ensure that piece of legislation is the best possible piece of legislation it can be.”

Other priorities outlined include promoting fuel diversity where gas will play a role in transition, exploring carbon capture utilisation and storage, as well as facilitating investment in hydrogen and offshore wind.

BEC executive director Tina Schirr says the annual breakfast with the minister is an opportunity to gauge how well aligned the sector and government’s priorities are, and to have direct conversation between public and private sectors.

“Highlights for the sector include the minister’s endorsement of the energy sector framework and indicating he is eager to implement it quickly,” she says.

“It’s also a good sign to hear the Government is committed to developing an energy strategy that is practical, and not just a theoretical document.

“BEC looks forward to working with the minster and supporting policy which promotes positive outcomes for the energy sector, over the next few years.”