Government Biofuels Target Announcement

30 August 2005

Business Council Welcomes Government Biofuels Target Announcement

At a time when petrol and diesel prices are hitting recent highs, the Government’s first small steps towards a biofuels target are to be welcomed, the Chief Executive Officer of the New Zealand Business Council for Sustainable Development, Peter Neilson said today.

Biofuels to extend fossil fuels along with increased take up of energy efficiency technologies and renewables will be part of the portfolio of fuel options to help meet our future energy needs.

Internationally biofuels have only achieved significant take up where Governments have policies to support their introduction. Business and individuals will only embrace a new fuel option if it provides substantial benefits, is widely available and doesn’t reduce vehicle performance.

The Government’s move will help establish a biofuels industry and promote the take up of the biofuel fuel option is therefore an important step. In time the proportion of biofuels is likely to increase, but at this stage it is critical that the introduction works well for all involved, whether motorist, car manufacturer or fuel supplier.

These first moves for greater use of biofuels are important. Encouraging the use of more fuel efficient and lower emission vehicles is now the next big opportunity for Government to green New Zealand’s car and truck fleet. Fossil fuels will remain our major source of energy going forward and biofuels will help make our substantially, imported liquid fuels go further.

ENDS

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