Energy Biz - July/August 2008 - (Page 15) importance of renewable energy through a national policy statement. This does not mean renewables at any environmental cost. We do not need to dam every river or have wind turbines on every ridgeline. But for New Zealand, as with other countries, a commitment to renewable electricity, and to reducing energy greenhouse gas emissions, requires a substantial increase in renewable capacity overall. New Zealand recognizes the potential contribution from the development and deployment of renewable energy technologies. Although New Zealand may have renewable resources, the application of new low-emissions technologies is critical for progress toward a low-emissions energy sector. In this regard we support the international focus on this technology. Much work is under way to ensure New Zealand is well placed to take advantage of new technologies as they become available, cost effective and applicable. Key technology areas of focus for New Zealand include geothermal and marine energy technologies and biomass conversion. All of these fit well within our abundant renewable resources. Hence, the government has established a contestable grant fund of $12 million in N.Z. currency, or about $9 million in U.S. currency, over three years beginning in July to support new low-carbon energy technologies and a Marine Energy Deployment contestable fund of $8 million in N.Z. currency, or $6 million, over four years. For New Zealand, and the world, the dual challenges of climate change and energy security and the rise in oil prices add urgency to initiatives to move to a more sustainable renewables-based energy system. As a small country, New Zealand needs to work collaboratively with other countries using international linkages with organizations, such as the International Energy Agency, Asia Pacific Economic Council, and the East Asia Summit, on the research and development of renewables technology. It is important to build on existing institutions to further promote the global uptake of renewable energy. Nevertheless, New Zealand is proud to be on the front foot and leading the way with a clear plan for achieving a low-emissions, affordable and secure energy system. Harry Duynhoven is New Zealand’s associate minister of energy. www.energycentral.com E n E rgyB i z 15 http://www.icefreehybrid.com http://www.icefreehybrid.com http://www.energycentral.com
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