The Future of Gas

As Aotearoa New Zealand’s energy landscape evolves, many homeowners and businesses are reassessing their energy options. Recent developments in the gas market have highlighted the ongoing importance of gas and its role in our energy mix. Gas remains a valuable resource for New Zealand, but how viable is it?

What’s Been Going On Lately?

Recent months have seen significant challenges in the gas market. Lower-than-expected gas production and cold conditions have led to increased gas use for electricity generation. With a tighter supply situation, some retailers are opting to stop taking on new gas customers. This is a temporary measure to control demand in this season of short supply, not a sign of gas being phased out. Gas is still a very important part of New Zealand’s energy supply, and we have significant natural gas reserves to provide energy for homes and businesses for years to come.

The Importance of Gas in Aotearoa

Despite the common misconception that gas is being phased out in NZ, it is predicted that gas will remain a crucial part of our energy network for at least the next 40 years. Considering that the typical lifespan of appliances is between 20 and 25 years, it’s safe to choose a gas solution if it best fits your needs.

All appliances that are being made now are already compatible with future fuels, so when your home is ready to move to renewable gas, the appliances we install today are already prepared for this transition.

Gas is a reliable and cost-effective solution. It provides a stable and consistent energy supply, which is essential for residential heating, hot water, and cooking — especially in big family households. Unlike some renewable sources which can be intermittent, gas ensures a steady flow of energy.

Renewable Solutions

The future of gas in New Zealand involves significant focus on innovation and sustainability. Renewable gases are being developed to eventually replace traditional natural gas. Hydrogen will also be mixed into the current gas network up to 20% to prolong the gas supply.

Biogas, produced from organic waste, and hydrogen, produced through electrolysis using renewable energy, are two promising developments in the renewable gas sector. We look forward to being able to offer these sustainable options to our customers as soon as we can.

Moving Forward with Confidence

Despite the temporary challenges in the gas market (and the electricity network), the long-term outlook for gas remains positive. Its reliability and cost-effectiveness make it a valuable energy source. As we move towards more sustainable energy solutions, the development of renewable gases will continue to contribute to New Zealand’s energy mix.

While we are committed to remaining at the forefront of new gas innovation, we will advise our customers on a case by case basis which energy source is right for their needs.

What If I Still Don’t Want Gas?

Fo those who prefer electricity, we are also staying at the forefront and have been trained in electric heat pump hot water system innovation — like the Rinnai Hydraheat® and Mitsubishi Ecodan.

We also specialise in woodburner supply & installation and can project manage the consent process for you if you are installing a new woodburner.