27 October 2004
Business Comments on Sustainable Energy – “Creating a Sustainable Energy System” Report from Government
Peter Neilson, Chief Executive of the New Zealand Business Council for Sustainable Development (the Business Council)
welcomed the release of the Government’s report entitled “Creating a Sustainable Energy System”.
“Companies and organisations with an interest in energy will find value in reading the report. It outlines current
Government thinking on the energy options we face looking out over the next 20 years. Correctly it recognises that there
are several issues to be addressed and that no single silver bullet exists to cure our energy issues. In a world of
rapidly changing technology and uncertainties about future supply and prices for energy, clear thinking on the options
available is crucial. While many will argue about some of the propositions, differences of opinion about the future are
a necessary part of a debate to pick the best path to a sustainable energy future.”
“The Business Council is preparing the project charter for its study with industry participants of options to achieve a
sustainable energy plan for New Zealand looking 50 years out. Our planned timetable will enable us to engage in the
Government’s consultations by March of next year.”
“The Government should be congratulated for being prepared to engage with industry and the wider public on longer term
energy issues. The tyranny of the three year election cycle and the requirement to respond to the crisis of the day
often prevents a government from thinking beyond the horizon of 3-5 years.”
ENDS