Gas Energy is Here to Stay – Future Sure
With the release of the Climate Change Commission’s (CCC) advice to the government in early June, many homeowners are wondering about the fate of their gas appliances – such as gas fires, water heating systems, heaters, and the classic barbecue. To summarise, the CCC has not proposed a ban on new gas connections from 2025. Instead, they have recommended the government sets a date on the halt of new gas connections once a national energy strategy is developed and there is greater clarity around the contribution future gases can make.
As the consideration of our environmental impact is one of Rinnai’s core guiding principles, we support any action that will help our nation reach its goal of reducing carbon emissions. While the CCC’s recommendations aim to reduce the consumption of today’s gas sources, we do believe that the development of more sustainable alternatives will allow gas to remain part of our country’s future energy mix – even as we move towards carbon neutrality.
That’s why we’re proud to back the Future Sure campaign, along with our industry partners. This movement will give Kiwis the confidence, amongst all the uncertainty, that they can continue to enjoy gas energy in their daily lives. Here are some frequently asked questions for consumers that the campaign looks to address:
What will happen to my gas appliances after 2025?
Nothing. Natural gas and LPG will continue to be delivered to connected consumers until we have fully moved to new low and zero-carbon gases, likely to be by 2050.
Should I still buy a gas appliance now?
Absolutely. You can buy a gas appliance now and be confident that you can use it over its expected lifetime. Most modern gas appliances are already able to run on a blend of natural gas and renewable hydrogen gas (up to 20%) or biogas, so you can continue to use them as our country adapts its energy mix to reduce emissions.
What sustainable gas options are out there?
Green hydrogen gas
Green hydrogen gas, made with renewable energy and water, can be used on its own or blended with natural gas to reduce emissions.
Renewable biogas
Renewable biogas is produced through the breakdown of organic waste (e.g. compost). BioLPG, produced from biomass (e.g. forest, crop, or farm waste) is chemically identical to LPG and can be a direct energy replacement for your BBQ or LPG appliances.
Will gas prices increase in the future?
As the country moves towards renewable energy, all types of energy costs are likely to increase. The renewable gas options are likely to be more expensive than LPG and natural gas prices today, but are still expected to remain good value and competitively priced with renewable electricity costs.
For more information, visit the official Gas Energy website here: Future Sure – Gas Energy