Waikato Regional Energy Strategy

The Waikato Regional Energy Strategy, which was launched at the Beehive in August 2009, provides a comprehensive map of the Waikato's current energy resources, and a range of recommendations on ways in which the region's energy resources could be further developed. The Waikato strategy, which has been initiated by Environment Waikato and developed with community and business input, has highligted the important role which the region plays in energy production - particularly electricity generation. The strategy points out that the region contains more than 75 per cent of the country's known geothermal energy resources, important hydro dams, large thermal generation plants, and produces up to 50% of the nation's electricity, when required. It also contains significant coal resources, and strong potentials for wind and wave power.

For more information about the strategy, contact Environment Waikato (07-859-0851), or the coordinator of the Waikato Regional Energy Forum (waikatoenergyforum@ihug.co.nz).