Hon Simon Bridges

Minister of Energy and Resources

16 July 2015

NZ-Japan commitment to geothermal energy

Energy and Resources Minister, Simon Bridges, says a new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed today will strengthen the strategic partnership in renewable energy research and development between New Zealand and Japan.

Mr Bridges witnessed the signing of the MOU, between New Zealand’s GNS Science and the Japan Oil, Gas and Metals National Corporation (JOGMEC) during his visit to Tokyo this week. The MOU establishes the basis for cooperation in geothermal energy.

“Globally, geothermal energy is experiencing a renaissance, and I’m pleased that our two countries can share their pioneering experience - characterised by innovative, sustainable and respectful management of geothermal resources.”

The agreement includes technical cooperation in the evaluation and mitigation of environmental impacts of geothermal energy development, development of survey methodologies over large spatial areas, and methods for sustainable management of geothermal reservoirs.

“At nearly 80 per cent, New Zealand’s share of renewable electricity generation in 2014 was the fourth highest in the world. Geothermal generation has more than doubled over the past decade and is a true New Zealand success story,” Mr Bridges says.

“Our renewable advantage in New Zealand, including the continuing growth of world-class geothermal energy, presents real opportunities to leverage our expertise and experience overseas for economic advantage.”

Mr Bridges also witnessed the signing of an MOU between GNS Science and the Japan Agency for Marine-Earth Science and Technology (JAMSTEC), which will enable closer collaboration in the field of marine science and technology.

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