UPDATE: New Zealand’s Associate Energy Minister, Shane Jones, has sparked controversy with his candid remarks on the country’s energy policy, revealing a dramatic shift away from previous commitments to Net Zero. In an interview on October 22, 2023, Jones declared, “Oh, brick-by-brick we’re dismantling it, mate,” confirming the government’s intention to revive the coal industry.
This urgent statement comes just days after the conservative coalition government faced criticism for not fulfilling its ambitious election promises. Jones went on to disclose that the government has allocated $200 million to reinvigorate the gas industry, explicitly countering former Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern‘s previous ban on such energy sources.
Jones emphasized the economic burden of current climate policies, stating, “The dead weight cost of these climate policies is a burden that our economy cannot bear.” With the next election slated for September-October 2024, he asserted that the government’s manifesto would focus on reversing Ardern’s climate commitments.
The backdrop of his statements highlights mixed signals from the government regarding its 2026-30 emissions plan, which aims to cap emissions at 205 million tonnes of CO2. Jones argued that the previous reliance on renewable energy sources has led to soaring electricity prices, stating, “Last winter, we had the highest spiking prices for electricity in the entire OECD.”
The interview, conducted by Rowan Dean on his show Outsiders, amplified calls for a reevaluation of New Zealand’s energy strategy. Jones criticized the “hatred of fossil fuels” that he claims has stifled the country’s energy potential, asserting that the government must utilize its own resources rather than relying on imports.
Jones’s comments serve as a stark warning to neighboring Australia, where he highlighted the dangers of rising energy costs leading to deindustrialization. He stated, “If you do not have affordable energy in your economy, then your economy is going to deindustrialize.” This sentiment resonates amid growing concerns about energy security across the region.
The urgency of Jones’s statements reflects a significant pivot in New Zealand’s energy narrative, as the government seeks to balance economic viability with environmental responsibilities. With key industries facing pressures from strict climate regulations, the upcoming election may see a fierce debate over the future of energy policy in New Zealand.
As the political landscape shifts, Jones’s blunt honesty has garnered attention, prompting discussions about the sustainability of current climate goals. He stressed the importance of aligning energy policies with economic realities, urging that “we’re not going to maintain a set of targets or expectations that our economy cannot bear.”
As developments unfold, the public and political stakeholders alike will be watching closely to see how this bold new direction impacts New Zealand’s energy landscape and its commitments to climate action.
