Hodgson Failing to Read Between the Lines

Gerry Brownlee - National Energy Spokesperson

Transpower’s System Security Forecast clearly shows if electricity generation is not increased for the South Island then customers north of Waitaki will face brown outs and black outs from 2005, says National’s Energy spokesperson Gerry Brownlee.

“The Government has a major problem. The simple fact is the best place to put hydro generation is the West Coast of the South Island where there is no prospect of a dry year problem. The Dobson proposal is the most easily achieved additional generation capacity from a renewable source.

“What Energy Minister, Pete Hodgson does not want to tell New Zealanders is that Kyoto and cheap electricity do not go together. Expansion of thermal generation can only be achieved if the price to consumers takes a considerable hike. His energy policy is a mess and unless he gets a firm grip on the portfolio New Zealand will have serious electricity shortages from 2005.

“As a Christchurch member of Parliament I am extremely concerned that without the Dobson project going ahead Christchurch City will face brown out and black out by 2005.

“I refer the Minister again to page 130 of Tranpower’s System Security Forecast and suggest he read between the lines so he understands how serious the problem is, “says Mr Brownlee.

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