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Positioning green hydrogen in New Zealand’s energy future

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Trish Sunga Trish Sunga Australasia Press Office,Sydney
2 September 2019

The potential of green hydrogen to reduce New Zealand’s carbon emissions, create jobs and become a new export industry is considered in a Government green paper released today. 

Arup co-authored ‘A Vision for hydrogen in New Zealand’ which outlines the opportunities for green hydrogen as the economy transitions to achieve its aim of net zero carbon by 2050. 

Diagram explaining why hydrogen? Diagram explaining why hydrogen?

The Green Paper sets out how policies, regulations, technology, infrastructure and investment – underpinned by collaboration and strong partnerships - could support a range of industries to adopt green hydrogen use and enhance energy security.

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There are numerous initiatives in play as countries transition away from fossil fuelled energy, but it was important to understand their applicability and potential value to New Zealand. ”

Arup has strong credentials in the renewable energy sector, and is involved with numerous hydrogen projects and programmes globally. It is lead adviser on New Zealand’s first green hydrogen demonstration project, a production and refuelling facility which will be built by Ports of Auckland.

Energy and Resources Minister Megan Woods said the Vision is a key part of the Renewable Energy Strategy.

“I consider green hydrogen as one of the potential tools that will help assist us to reduce global emissions. This paper lays out the role it can play in our economy, particularly the wider energy and transport systems, and what we can do to accelerate its use,” Dr Woods said.

“In combination, electricity and hydrogen provide a robust energy system platform to decarbonise New Zealand.

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I would like to thank Arup for its excellent work assisting officials from the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment. ” Dr Megan Woods Minister of Energy and Resources, New Zealand

Arup’s team led by Liz Halsted, drew on technical research, global policies, evidence and the knowledge of local experts and stakeholders to contextualise the green paper for New Zealand’s circumstances.

“Internationally, there is immense interest in green hydrogen as an effective way to store and deliver energy for transport, heating, resilience and industrial uses,” Liz said.

“The Vision notes the importance of public-private sector collaboration and Arup looks forward to supporting further developments.”

Map of current hydrogen opportunities in New Zealand Map of current hydrogen opportunities in New Zealand

The New Zealand Government is seeking feedback on the Vision to inform development of the Renewable Energy Strategy. Submissions close on Friday 25 October 2019.