New Zealand Energy Strategy

Energy is essential to Aotearoa New Zealand’s economy. It is used in transport, electricity, for heating, and by industry – and is fundamental to the health and wellbeing of our people, communities, and livelihoods.

In 2020, emissions from energy made up 40% of our total gross emissions. We will need to do things differently if we are to create a sustainable energy system for generations to come.

The Government’s 2050 vision for energy and industry is for Aotearoa New Zealand to have a highly renewable, sustainable, and efficient energy system that is accessible and affordable, secure and reliable, and supports New Zealanders’ wellbeing.

It has committed to reaching net zero for long-lived gases by 2050, set a target that 50% of total energy consumption will come from renewable sources by 2035, and has an aspirational target of 100% renewable electricity by 2030.

The first Emissions Reduction Plan set the policy direction for reducing emissions from energy and industry in line with the first emissions budget – including the development of an energy strategy.

A significant amount of work has already taken place in the energy sector that we now need to build on. There is an ambitious and comprehensive programme of work underway to transition Aotearoa New Zealand to a more renewable energy system. The New Zealand Energy Strategy will align policies and projects to ensure there is a coordinated approach to the energy transition. 

Developing the New Zealand Energy Strategy

MBIE will develop the New Zealand Energy Strategy by the end of 2024.

A cohesive, enduring energy strategy will set out how the energy sector will decarbonise and ensure that steps are coordinated across the whole energy system. It will help to signal pathways to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels, and towards greater levels of renewable energy and other low emissions alternatives.

Developing the Strategy will involve exploring what’s possible in Aotearoa New Zealand, to reach a shared understanding of the barriers and opportunities being faced.

A strong evidence base will inform the Strategy. This will be built through modelling, research, and analysis of different scenarios and potential pathways forward.

It will also look at how we can chart the path forward and set the direction for our energy system – considering the key trade-offs and big decisions Aotearoa New Zealand will need to make.

Developing the Strategy will involve fully collaborating and engaging with Māori, and working with industry and consumers. Our principles for engagement are early, accessible and inclusive.

MBIE has already met with a wide range of stakeholders and has established a cross-agency steering group to guide the development of the Strategy.

The terms of reference for the Strategy have now been released. These set out the scope, objectives, and approach to developing the Strategy.

Opportunities to get involved

There will be opportunities to provide input during the development of the New Zealand Energy Strategy. We will provide more details on how and when you will be able to engage as the work progresses over the coming months.

To keep informed of those opportunities and to receive updates on the progress of the New Zealand Energy Strategy, please register your interest at energystrategy@mbie.govt.nz.