Copeland: Gas-for-electricity 'woefully inefficient'
In promoting wind, solar and hydro power generation, United Future's new energy spokesman Gordon Copeland today said he
was opposed to the "woefully inefficient" use of natural gas to generate electricity.
"In energy terms it involves the downgrading of a superior and non-renewable energy. Rather New Zealand should explore
the many opportunities, both domestically and internationally, to sell gas 'as is' or with value added, such as in LPG,
CNG or gas to methanol," Mr Copeland said.
He also indicated that he was "not opposed" to coal-powered electricity generation.
Mr Copeland, who has previously held senior positions in the oil industry, said that he had been disappointed that
previous National and Labour conservation ministers had ruled out hydro schemes from "day one", opting instead to use
gas.
"In my view hydro schemes can, with good planning, preserve or enhance conservation values and they need not be viewed
as mutually exclusive.
"Wind and hydro generation and the use of solar power are perpetually renewable, and United Future will wholeheartedly
support the fast-tracking of such schemes to fill the vacuum which will arise as the Maui gas supply comes to an end,"
he said.