New Zealand Geothermal Association unveils Geoheat Action Plan (2022-2023)

The New Zealand Geothermal Association (NZGA) is launching its new Geoheat Action Plan this week, which focuses on the direct use of geothermal heat for industrial and commercial scale projects.

The Action Plan is the third in a series advancing the Geoheat Strategy for Aotearoa and identifies six priority actions for the 2022-2023 period; to communicate, advocate, showcase, represent, partner and advance geoheat.

These priorities are intended to raise awareness and support for geoheat opportunities, ultimately converting business interest into tangible development projects.

The focus of the 2022-2023 Geoheat Action Plan is to increase the use of geoheat by industrial or commercial enterprises in central North Island locations, where geothermal energy is already a well-established, low-carbon energy option.

NZGA Chief Executive Kennie Tsui says geothermal resources play a critical role in transitioning to a low-emissions, climate resilient Aotearoa.

“Aotearoa must step up as a climate leader, strengthen our emissions reduction and place Tiriti o Waitangi and equity at the heart of our climate response.

“The tools to achieve internationally significant change are within our borders, we must be brave and embrace them to ensure that we can meet our net-zero targets.

“It has never been more important, at a time when low-carbon, off-grid renewable energy is a rapidly growing area for investment, to better position geothermal heat in this landscape.

“Geothermal is Aotearoa New Zealand’s heritage, a crucial energy source today, poised to play an even greater role in our low carbon energy future.”

This Action Plan is intended for use by national, regional and local government decision and policy makers, consultants, investors, funders and, most importantly, industries and businesses looking for a sustainable, cost-effective source of low- carbon heat.