The government’s new energy strategy document ‘Developing Our Energy Potential’ was leaked on Sunday.
The strategy appears to be disappointingly similar to the draft document released for consultation last year and puts the exploration of ‘petroleum and mineral fuel’ reserves ahead of investing in renewable power sources and new technologies. Not only this, but the document fails to make any direct mention of how, strategically, the exploitation of these finite reserves will bring advantage in facilitating the necessary transition to a low carbon economy.
Despite the draft strategy attracting a large number of submissions in support of developing renewable energy and reducing our use of fossil fuels, there appears to be little commitment to this in the revised document.
What does this say about the nature of consultation at a national level, and of our ability to think longer-term towards the development of a sustainable energy future?
Paul Atkins, NERI Chief Executive.
For more information:
- Read the strategy document
- Read Energy at all costs by Sciblogger Bryan Walker
- Read news article and comments on stuff.co.nz