Geothermal

New Zealand has an abundant supply of geothermal resources, such as hot springs and volcanoes. Geothermal energy production is our third largest renewable energy source, after hydroelectricity and biomass.

There are 12 main geothermal areas in New Zealand. Most of them have low temperature geothermal resources. The high temperature geothermal systems that can generate electricity are mainly found within the Taupo Volcanic zone in the Waikato and Bay of Plenty. There is another high temperature resource zone in Northland.

Geothermal energy is ideally suited to direct heating although it is also used for generating electricity. Low temperature geothermal systems have been widely used for bathing, heating greenhouses, and drying timber and crops.

High temperature geothermal resources have been developed for electricity generation. Current capacity is over 400 MW. This is enough energy to power all the residential homes in the Auckland region for a year.

The current level of geothermal use pales in comparison to its potential. The key to wider geothermal use is greater public awareness and technical support.

New Zealand Geothermal Association

The New Zealand Geothermal Association is a scientific, educational and cultural organisation representing the geothermal industry.