Some Recent and Current Government Initiatives Related to Geothermal Energy

Abstract

The geothermal energy sector will benefit fiom Government initiatives now being directed at the promotion of renewable energy and sustainable development. These areas and a broad range of other initiatives are progressively being brought under the Government's "Growth and Innovation Framework'' and "Sustainable Development Initiatives".

The sustainable development initiatives in the energy sector have the desired outcomes of a) seeing energy use in New Zealand becoming progressively more efficient and less wasteful; b) ensuring renewable sources of energy are developed and maximised; and c) ensuring that consumers have a secure supply of electricity. To this end there is currently a range of energy-related Government initiatives that may have a positive effect on the geothermal and wider renewable energy communities.

Under these changes, Government departments are becoming more pro-active and are placing greater emphasis on linkages, innovation, and targeted regulation. The New Zealand energy industry has been the subject of a stream of reforms over the last 15 years and more, with further reforms currently in the wings.