Coasties, the Government is taking significant steps toward a greener future with a series of reforms aimed at accelerating New Zealand’s transition to renewable electricity.

The initiative, announced by RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop and Energy Minister Simeon Brown, is a critical part of the Government’s strategy to power the nation with clean, renewable energy while enhancing economic growth and tackling climate change.

The Government’s Electrify NZ plan seeks to simplify and reduce the costs associated with consenting, building, and maintaining renewable electricity generation, as well as improving the distribution and transmission infrastructure.

According to Minister Brown, electrification will "supercharge our economy, tackle climate change, and strengthen our energy security."

A 2022 study by Sapere for the Infrastructure Commission revealed that infrastructure developers in New Zealand spend approximately $1.29 billion annually on project consents, with costs rising by 70% since 2014.

With over 40% of current renewable generation needing re-consenting in the next decade and demand expected to grow by over 40% by 2050, the Government argues that the current system is unsustainable for achieving climate and energy goals.

To address these challenges, the Government’s plan includes the establishment of a one-stop-shop fast-track approvals regime, currently progressing through the Environment Select Committee.

This regime is expected to expedite the consenting process for major renewable energy projects.

In addition, the Government will introduce amendments to the Resource Management Act (RMA) aimed at reducing processing times for renewable energy consents to within one year.

The amendments will also extend consent lapse periods to 10 years and default consent durations to 35 years.

The Electrify NZ plan also outlines the development of stronger national directives for renewable energy and a new regime for offshore wind energy, expected to be in place by mid-2025.

This new regime is designed to attract investments and prioritise developments that offer the greatest benefit to New Zealand.

Updated regulatory settings for electricity networks and new connections are also on the agenda, with the Commerce Commission and Electricity Authority working to ensure the system can support the Government’s goal of supercharging EV infrastructure.

These initiatives represent a significant shift in how New Zealand approaches energy infrastructure, with the Government committed to removing barriers to renewable energy development and ensuring a sustainable, electrified future for the country.