Where we are headed – the vision
From the Ground Up sets a long-term direction for the sustainable growth of New Zealand’s geothermal sector. This section unpacks the strategy’s vision and strategic outcomes.
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The vision – leading the world in sustainable geothermal development
This strategy envisions a future where New Zealand continues to lead globally in geothermal science, innovation and sustainability; attracts investment into reliable, renewable baseload energy, process heat and lower enthalpy geothermal developments; and unlocks new opportunities – from protecting and valuing the significant contribution of geothermal tourism to emerging industries such as mineral and gas recovery from geothermal fluids and geothermal microorganisms.
Through targeted action and collaboration, this strategy aims to ensure the continued development of geothermal resources to support a resilient, low-emissions economy and thriving regional communities.
Vision
New Zealand is a global leader in sustainable geothermal development, delivering innovation, resilience and inclusive growth for future generations.
From vision to results – key outcomes
To achieve this vision, four interconnected outcomes guide action and investment. These outcomes reflect the breadth and depth of opportunity offered by New Zealand’s geothermal resources and align with wider Government priorities. They provide a framework for unlocking our geothermal potential in a way that is innovative, sustainable and collaborative, with the Treaty of Waitangi as a guiding principle.
While broad in scope, this strategy includes a specific energy goal – to double geothermal energy use by 2040, focusing activity on a tangible target and reinforcing the role of geothermal resources in New Zealand’s energy mix.
Strategic outcomes
- Extend New Zealand’s position as a world leader in geothermal innovation and sustainability.
- Support energy resilience by maintaining and accelerating development of increased renewable electricity generation and harnessing geothermal heat to support New Zealand’s energy transition.
Goal: Double geothermal energy use by 2040 - Strengthen regional economies and te Ōhanga Māori by advancing sustainable geothermal development in partnership with tāngata whenua, and unlock industrial growth, tourism and trade to support New Zealand’s goal of doubling exports.
- Recognise and support the aspirations of iwi and hapū for the sustainable management, development and protection of geothermal resources, using the Treaty of Waitangi as a guiding principle and in a way that upholds the Treaty and Treaty settlements and commitments.