New Zealand’s government is aiming to sign a contract for developing the country’s first LNG facility before the November general election, with energy minister Simeon Brown saying a preferred bidder is likely to be selected before the vote. Imported LNG is intended to insulate New Zealand against drought risk, which can undermine its mainstay hydropower generation.
The New Zealand Government will launch the registration of interest (ROI) phase for LNG import facility services on October 6, in the face of fuel shortages due to rapidly declining domestic gas reserves. The actual tender will be managed separately.
New Zealand has reversed a ban on oil and gas exploration introduced by the previous government and will offer incentives for energy and mining company investments similar to those in other pro-fossil fuel energy nations.