Bioenergy gets a boost – now action must follow

The Bioenergy Association is pleased to see the Government recognition of bioenergy being an important part of NZ’s future energy mix. 

Brian Cox, Executive Officer of the Bioenergy Association, said that “wood energy is the largest untapped ready-to-use source of energy across New Zealand, far bigger than many oil fields. This recognition from Government will encourage the use of wood energy to address the emerging energy supply crisis.”

The Hon Simon Watts has announced two significant steps the Government is taking: a new Wood Energy Strategy & Action Plan and a Government Statement on Biogas. This was made at a joint Residues2Revneues 2025 and Bioeconomy Innovations conference in Rotorua last week.

“We at Bioenergy Association see this as good news: it brings long-needed visibility to bioenergy, reinforces regional jobs in forestry and waste sectors, and strengthens our circular economy potential.

However, the real work now begins. We need policy clarity, funding certainty, and implementation frameworks that allow wood energy and biogas to scale, not just be talked about. Bioenergy Association stands ready to collaborate with government and industry to make it happen.”

Brian Cox also spoke on the Mike Hosking Breakfast podcast.