Clean energy key driver to reducing emissions

Posted: 18 Apr 2024

The Government’s commitment to doubling New Zealand’s renewable energy capacity is backed by new data showing that clean energy has helped the country reach its lowest annual gross emissions since 1999, Climate Change Minister Simon Watts says.

New Zealand’s latest Greenhouse Gas Inventory (1990-2022) published today, shows gross emissions fell to 78.4 million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (Mt CO2-e) in 2022, four per cent lower than in 2021.

“We want New Zealanders to benefit from affordable, clean energy. Nearly 90 per cent of New Zealand’s electricity in 2022 came from renewable sources, making us one of the best in the world. But we still have more to do.

“That’s why we have already started work on doubling renewable energy production, ensuring we stay laser focused on continuing this positive trend."

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