Transpower welcomes focus on renewable energy

11 December 2006

Transpower welcomes focus on renewable energy

Transpower, owner and operator of the National Grid, today welcomed the release of the Government’s Draft National Energy Strategy and its focus on ensuring a sustainable energy future.

Chief Executive, Dr Ralph Craven said that with an increased focus and commitment to the use of renewable forms of energy, a robust and reliable National Grid will be a crucial piece of infrastructure that will allow these often remote sources of energy to be brought to market.

“Connecting new, renewable energy sources such as wind and geothermal to our communities and consumers, is a key role of the National Grid.

“Renewable energy sources, both existing and those likely to be developed in the future, are primarily located in the central and lower North Island and in the South Island. The National Grid is fundamental in transporting electricity from these sources to major load centres like Auckland.”

“Many renewable generation projects are already being planned. As these projects are advanced, Transpower will work with their proponents in an effort to ensure that the capacity of the National Grid meets the connection needs of any confirmed proposal, no matter where it is located.

“Maintaining security of supply through investment in new and upgraded transmission lines, and undertaking maintenance on the existing lines, will continue to be Transpower’s key focus,” he said.

Transpower also considers that once the final National Energy Strategy is released next year, it will essentially be a ‘vision’ for the energy sector to work towards.

“We look forward to being involved and working with our stakeholders to contribute positively towards this national vision,” Dr Craven said.

ENDS

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