Energy is central to New Zealand’s economic and environmental future, and few issues generate as much public and political debate. The Illustrative National Policy Direction identifies a “secure, abundant and affordable energy system” as a core directive and indicates that spatial plans should identify opportunities to improve New Zealand’s energy security, resilience and independence, while supporting the transition to a low-carbon economy. Turning those ambitions into reality is no small task - our future energy needs raise difficult questions and competing priorities.

But beyond the headlines and political positioning, what is actually happening on the ground? What are those working across the energy sector seeing, what challenges are they facing, and what do they need to succeed?

Join RMLA online for a frank, evidence-based conversation with five leading voices from across the sector, with perspectives spanning oil and gas development, major electricity users, energy efficiency and building performance, science and Māori energy sovereignty, leadership and equity.

Our panellists are: 

·    Andrew Eagles, Chief Executive, NZ Green Building Council

·    Dr Chris McKeown, Chief Executive, ENZED Energy

·    Karen Boyes, Executive Director, Major Electricity Users’ Group

·    Dr Isabelle Chambefort, General Manager Energy, Earth Sciences NZ

·    Ruka Te Moana, Managing Director, Te Piringa Pūngao

 The discussion will be facilitated by Lauren Wallace, RMLA President and Partner at Govett Quilliam. The panel will explore a range of issues: how do we keep the lights on while keeping power bills affordable? Are renewables being built fast enough, and what role should gas play? Which new technologies will make a real difference, and what infrastructure will we need to get to a low-carbon economy?