Planning resources
Local government responsibilities include long term planning for their communities, and managing developments in line with those plans.
Long Term Council Community Plans
Long Term Council Community Plans are important documents, providing a framework for direction and priorities. The following guidelines will help you factor in energy efficiency and renewable energy when developing these plans.
Guide to Energy and Long Term Council Community Plans
Resource Management Act
The Resource Management (Energy and Climate Change) Amendment Act 2004 requires particular regard be given to to the efficiency of the end use of energy, the effects of climate change, and the benefits to be derived from the use and development of renewable energy resources. This is relevant to the consideration of resource consent applications and when policy statements and plans are reviewed or changed. To help you do this, read the quality planning guidance note on the Resource Management (Energy and Climate Change) Amendment Act 2004 (Quality Planning website)
EECA works to assist Councils have regard to these matters. To find out more about this work email info@eeca.govt.nz or call 0800 358 676.
Regional energy strategies
A regional energy strategy looks at the whole spectrum of energy resources and demand-side opportunities available within a specific region. A number of regions are developing regional energy strategies.
EECA and other government agencies have information about energy use at both a national, regional, and local level, which can help in developing these regional plans.
To find out more about developing a regional energy strategy in your area email info@eeca.govt.nz or call 0800 358 676.
Read the Waikato Regional Energy Strategy
More information
The following are relevant to local government when influencing energy use and generation in their communities:
