Low emissions economy
This section is about our work to improve energy efficiency, including lowering greenhouse gas emissions and fostering growth in renewable energy.
On this page
Environmental management work
The Ministry for the Environment is the government's principal adviser on environmental and climate change issues. However, we also contribute to the development of environmental and climate change policies because of their relevance to energy efficiency and resource development, including:
- Resource Management Act 1991(external link)
- National Policy Statements(external link)
- National Environmental Standards(external link)
- Exclusive Economic Zone and Continental Shelf (Environmental Effects) Act 2012(external link)
- Regulations under the Exclusive Economic Zone and Continental Shelf (Environmental Effects) Act 2012(external link)
- New Zealand Emissions Trading Scheme(external link)
In this section
Emissions Reduction Plan
New Zealand is on the path to a low emissions, climate resilient future. Government has set into law a target for net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 (other than for biogenic methane). The Emissions Reduction Plan is one mechanism we are using to focus our collective efforts toward transitioning to a more resilient, low emissions economy.
Energy efficiency in New Zealand
We’re responsible for advising the Government on energy efficiency policy for New Zealand and we are currently trialling a new renewable energy initiative that aims to improve energy affordability. EECA is responsible for implementing programmes to improve the energy efficiency of New Zealand homes and business.
Decarbonising process heat
We are working with the Ministry for the Environment and the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority to reduce emissions from the industry sector and process heat through energy efficiency and fuel switching.
NZ Battery Project
Cabinet has approved funding to investigate pumped hydro against other possible solutions to New Zealand’s dry year electricity problem.
Carbon capture and storage
Carbon capture and storage (CCS) is the process to remove carbon dioxide, from waste gases produced in large-scale industrial processes and permanently store it underground.