The plan for bioenergy security: A homegrown energy solution for New Zealand
OPINION: by Brian Cox, Bioenergy Association Executive Officer
First published in The Post, 28 March 2026
Why the difference matters between LNG and biomethane
The New Zealand Integrated Bioenergy Programme is a coordinated plan to turn forestry residues, wood waste and organic material into renewable energy. Instead of being left to rot or wash downstream in the next storm, that material could be used to produce renewable electricity, heat and gas, or to free up electricity and natural gas for its highest value applications.
New conflict overseas comes with a price tag at home. Rising fuel costs, disrupted supply chains, and growing uncertainty are already being felt across New Zealand. It raises a simple question: why are we looking to expand our reliance on global energy markets, when we have the resources to build our own?
The country is right now grappling with vulnerability in its energy insecurity. Gas shortages, dry hydro years and reliance on imported fuels have exposed weaknesses in the system. Which will be heightened with the Government’s commitment to importing liquefied natural gas (LNG) to provide backup supply.
But what if part of the answer is already here?