Energy and the Power system
Approximately 70% of electricity generated in New Zealand comes from renewable energy sources such as hydro and geothermal power stations.
This is expected to increase in the years ahead, with a rapid increase in applications for wind farms.
In keeping with its nuclear-free policy, New Zealand has no nuclear power stations.
Electricity
Most homes use primarily electricity for the bulk of their energy needs.
The power system is 230 volts, 50 cycles.
Electricity is generated by several large power companies which are state-owned enterprises. These are stand alone companies that operate independently in the market, but are owned by and return dividends to the Crown.
The national grid by which power is delivered to cities and regions is a natural monopoly, and is owned and operated by the government company Transpower.
Local supply networks are owned by a range of entities, as a result of regulation giving local councils the right to make decisions in the best interests of their area. This has led to different approaches in different areas, with the consequent variations.
For more information about New Zealand’s electricity system, visit the Electricity Authority
Gas
‘Natural gas’ is reticulated to some areas in some towns and cities. The variation is likely to have resulted from variations in demand at the time subdivisions have been gazetted or services first laid.
Gas is prized by many chefs, and the growth of cooking as an entertainment in recent decades has seen gas companies develop delivery and replacement services that mean gas cooking and heating can be achieved in most cities at fairly competitive rates.
For more information about New Zealand’s gas supply visit the Liquid Petroleum Gas Association
Solar
Many areas of New Zealand are suitable for solar power generation, and when used in conjunction with wind (and sometimes bottled gas) it is possible to live ‘off-grid’.
For more information about solar energy in New Zealand visit the Solar Industries Association
Coal
New Zealand has substantial reserves of lignite in the South Island which are a potential source of both energy and controversy. Currently there are no formal plans to develop this resource, but public debate continues.
Richer high grade coal has been mined at sites in both the North and South Island for many years. Although in some areas this is being seen as less desirable, there is still strong support for it in some areas – often those with the mines.
For more information about coal in New Zealand visit the Coal Association of New Zealand
Wind, tides and waves
There is strong support in some areas for more research and trials of wave and tide generation options. Progress is still at an early stage in most cases, but wind power is well established, with substantial wind farms already operating in the Manawatu outside Palmerston North, and in Wellington, and several other sites at stages of planning or construction.
A good place to start for more information about wind power generation is the New Zealand Wind Energy Association
