New Zealand Scraps Offshore Petroleum Exploration Ban
New Zealand’s government has announced its intention to end its ban on offshore petroleum exploration, citing urgent energy security issues. Resources Minister Shane Jones highlighted the necessity of natural gas for the nation’s economy, particularly during times of high electricity demand and fluctuating supply from renewable sources such as wind, solar, and hydropower.
Jones said that gas is “critical” for the economy during periods of peak electricity demand and when generation dips from more intermittent sources such as wind, solar, and hydropower. This decision fulfills Prime Minister Christopher Luxon’s campaign promise to restart offshore oil and gas prospecting following his election victory last October.
The government plans to introduce changes to the Crown Minerals Act in the latter half of 2024, which would officially lift the moratorium on offshore exploration permits. This ban had been in place since 2018 under former Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, although onshore projects were still allowed.
The policy shift has ignited substantial debate, especially among environmental advocates and political adversaries. Green Party co-leader Chlöe Swarbrick condemned the move, labeling it a “severe backward step amid a climate crisis.” Swarbrick and other environmental activists argue that resuming offshore exploration contradicts New Zealand’s commitments to reducing carbon emissions and fighting climate change.
The energy sector has largely supported the move, seeing it as essential for enhancing New Zealand’s energy security. However, the decision has faced criticism from various quarters. Energy analyst Mark Nelson, an advocate for nuclear power, pointed out the inconsistencies in New Zealand’s energy policies.
“New Zealand bans nuclear energy. It banned offshore oil and gas exploration too, because the climate and environment are so important. Now they decide it’s too hard to fill the gaps in intermittent renewables. Lift nuclear ban…? Nope, lift fossil exploration ban! Classic,” Nelson posted on X.
He further commented on the inefficiencies of the decision, saying, “The gap between starting exploration and putting in a field can be as long as putting in a nuclear program. With nuclear, you know for sure what you’re getting, and it doesn’t run out (or produce carbon and methane emissions, for those countries claiming to care).”
The government’s decision to lift the ban also aims to accelerate the development of renewable energy projects. Officials argue that a balanced energy mix, including natural gas, is crucial for maintaining energy security while transitioning to a more sustainable future.
New Zealand’s third-quarter power generation report revealed an increased reliance on fossil fuels, highlighting the challenges faced by the country’s energy sector. The report showed that fossil fuel use had risen due to lower-than-expected outputs from renewable sources, justifying the government’s push for a diversified energy portfolio.
Information for this briefing was found via Bloomberg and the sources mentioned. The author has no securities or affiliations related to this organization. Not a recommendation to buy or sell. Always do additional research and consult a professional before purchasing a security. The author holds no licenses.
