Jacinta Ardern has received plenty of publicity over the last 24 months, most of which has positioned her as a favourable politician almost on a global level. Now, Ardern is promising to end all non-renewable energy sources by 2030, if she’s re-elected.
Already carrying a clean carbon footprint commitment, Ardern is still looking to ramp up these efforts before the October election hits, this time setting her sights on lifting the renewable energy goal for New Zealand.
Setting NZ up for post-COVID-19 economical recovery
Last Thursday, Ardern said that the pandemic has allowed for economic recovery to be transitioned into clean energy, as New Zealand battles with reforming – just as every other country is from harsh lockdown and economic downfall.
“The COVID-19 economic recovery represents a once in a generation opportunity to reshape New Zealand’s energy system to be more renewable, faster, affordable and secure,” said Ardern.
The previous goal was to move NZ over to 100 per cent renewables by the end of 2055, but this has been dramatically altered to better reflect ‘new’ conditions after the impacts of COVID-19.
The Ardern Government now says that 84 per cent of the nation’s electrical generation stems from renewable sources, but coal oil offsets the total consumption of 40 per cent.
Could New Zealand become a renewable superpower?
Backing the decision, Energy Minister Megan Woods said this goal would help New Zealand move into leadership on a renewable-focused level.
“[It would make NZ] one of the few nations in the world with 100 per cent renewable electricity,” said Woods. She also added that the country would eliminate activity that is based on increasing emissions, such as eradicating certain technologies and instead promote clean energy developments.
The plan remains to set sights on clean energy sources and to lower carbon emissions, which will help the country make the most of economic opportunities to see New Zealand become a green, clean nation.
Ardern also released an announcement that $70 million would be put towards a climate change commission-based hydrogen project, which is set to be positioned at Lake Onslow near Alexandra on the South Island.
Further hydro projects are in the pipeline too, as Ardern encourages the shift to this form of generation to “quicken the electrification of New Zealand’s vehicle fleet”.
RELATED: Anthony Albanese labels Australia a potential ‘renewable energy superpower.’
