ToR for New Zealand Energy Strategy announced

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.

A significant amount of work has already taken place in the energy sector that we now need to build on.

A cohesive and enduring Energy Strategy will chart a path for the energy sector to make the essential changes Aotearoa New Zealand needs to make to decarbonise, while ensuring that steps are coordinated across the whole energy system.

The terms of reference for the Strategy set out MBIE’s scope, objectives, and approach.