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National wants to reverse the government’s ban on oil and gas exploration.
National’s energy policy also sets out the party’s plan to support “responsible” mining and research new technologies, such as carbon capture and storage, to transition to a net-zero emissions economy.
The party’s energy and resources spokesman Jonathan Young says National’s pragmatic plan is better for the environment and will lower energy bills.
Young says National will ensure that energy is affordable and the country is less dependent on coal.
“It has been estimated that the workers’ decision to close the door to future oil and gas exploration cost the New Zealand economy $ 30 billion and 3,000 jobs in Taranaki alone,” Young said.
“Over the past two years we have witnessed a steady rise in energy prices and increased consumption of imported coal as a result of the ill-thought-out oil and gas ban.
Young said National supports responsible mining that makes a positive contribution to the economy and the environment.
“National will deliver a pragmatic energy policy that is better for the environment and for consumers’ bank balances.”
National also promises to support a case-by-case evaluation of mining proposals on lower-quality conservation lands that provide a “net conservation benefit.”
Young says National will also repeal the Resource Management Act and introduce a new environmental legal and regulatory framework that is less complex and provides more certainty to stakeholders.
