Media Statement from the Bioenergy Association of New Zealand

Where to now for Sustainable Fuel Use in New Zealand as opportunities for the domestic production of biodiesel comes to a halt

“The decision not to continue to assist New Zealand’s emerging biodiesel sector is a severe blow to fuel users in New Zealand seeking a sustainable alternative fuel. The end of the Biodiesel Grant Scheme undoes all the sector development work that has occurred over the last three years”, Brian Cox, Executive Officer of the Bioenergy Association said today. “ The sector was just starting to consolidate and efforts to secure customer loyalty were beginning to pay off. Mr Cox added, “ The growing alternative option to imported diesel now won’t happen and we will continue to be dependent on imported fuel.” “Most importantly it is a lost economic opportunity to use our natural resources for economic gain.”

‘The Government has ended the continuation of the Biodiesel Grant Scheme which has been encouraging producers to make biodiesel in New Zealand from canola and used cooking oils. The availability of this biodiesel was starting to demonstrate to vehicle owners that biofuels could be safely used in vehicle engines. At a time when the sector was forming partnerships with producers and suppliers this is a disappointing development.”

“In developing a biofuels market there needs to be fuel available and it will now be some years before investors may want to enter the biodiesel market again.” Brian Cox said.

Brian Cox said “I just hope that the Government has more concern for economic sustainability when it considers bioethanol which in New Zealand is currently produced from whey. Currently domestically produced bioethanol is available at Gull Service Stations and vehicle engine manufacturers have accepted that their engines can safely use biofuels. If the support for bioethanol was also to cease then not only would it be yet another economic opportunity lost, but would send an message to potential international investors that New Zealand is not interested in biofuels. This would have a very detrimental effect on attracting investors for the emerging advanced biofuels sector, based on wood.”
ends

© Scoop Media