Analysis of regional organic feedstocks

Understanding organic feedstocks across New Zealand

We require a clear, region-by-region assessment of organic feedstocks available in Hawke’s Bay, Taranaki and Auckland. This means understanding how much material is available, where it’s located and the potential energy output across renewable energy pathways. The work will focus on anaerobic digestion (AD) and biomethane, but should also consider other commercially viable renewable fuel and energy options.  

This research will fill an important information gap by showing the potential energy that could be generated, how ready each region is to use it, and comparing economic viability across end uses. The findings will help industry, government, and other stakeholders make informed investment and policy decisions that strengthen New Zealand’s energy security, reduce natural gas dependence, and support emissions reduction goals.

Key scope of the work 

The research will take a two-part approach - combining desk-based work (existing data, research and modelling) with stakeholder engagement through interviews and workshops involving councils, industry, iwi and waste contractors.

What we are looking for 

• Mapping and analysis of feedstock volumes, costs, seasonality, and logistics.  
• Assessment of key feedstock types including municipal food waste, agricultural, wastewater sludge/digestate, commercial/industrial food waste.  
• A technical overview of AD processes, including feedstock energy content and digestate management options.  
• Education and capability building through stakeholder workshops and technical guides.  
• Stakeholder mapping and engagement (industry, iwi, councils, central government).

What we're not looking for

• Engineering or financial design of specific AD facilities.  
• Analysis of materials out of scope such as woody biomass, construction and demolition material, textiles and natural fibres, packaged food waste, and treated timber.   
• Costing or technical design or pipeline connections.  
• Selecting final facility locations or prescribing end-products. 
• Direct contracting for feedstock supply.  
• EECA anticipates the work will get underway by January 2026 and be completed by mid-2026.

Who should apply 

This is a new and complex research project, combining several different approaches to build a clear picture of
New Zealand’s organic feedstock potential. We are looking for suppliers with the right mix of technical expertise and practical experience.  

Applicants should have proven capability in: 

• Feedstock mapping – analysing organic waste streams, including agricultural residues, food processing by-products, green waste, and municipal organics, with consideration of seasonal variation, ownership, and current contracts. 
• Anaerobic digestion and biogas – technical expertise in AD process modelling, biomethane upgrading pathways, estimating energy yields, and comparing biomethane and renewable fuel options. 
• Infrastructure and logistics – ability to integrate GIS mapping with transport and gas distribution networks, assess regional hub viability, and evaluate feedstock aggregation. 
• Market and stakeholder engagement – analysing end-use economics, identifying market opportunities, and designing engagement frameworks to ensure social licence and alignment with national policy priorities.  

Proposals covering all regions, or a selection, are welcome.