Energy that doesn't cost the earth
New Zealand has always been shaped by natural forces - Sitting between two oceans and across the boundary of two tectonic plates, New Zealand has a rare mix of natural advantages: high mountains and deep lakes, geothermal steam, windswept plains and growing solar potential. Together, they underpin one of the world’s most renewable electricity systems. Today, over 80% of New Zealand’s electricity comes from renewable sources, with the country aspiring to reach 100% by 2030.
WATER
Water has powered New Zealand for generations. More than half of the country’s electricity comes from hydro schemes, with the first commissioned in 1903. More than 120 years later, hydro remains the backbone of New Zealand’s renewable electricity system.
WIND
New Zealand sits in the latitudes long known by sailors as the Roaring Forties - and the wind is more than just a talking point in Wellington.
Across the country, 21 wind farms are turning that natural advantage into renewable power. Wind now represents more than 12% of New Zealand’s generation capacity and produces enough electricity each year to supply more than 500,000 New Zealand homes.
GEOTHERMAL
New Zealand is a world leader in geothermal energy. It was the first country to generate electricity from a liquid-dominated geothermal resource — and for decades, New Zealand expertise has helped other countries understand and develop their own geothermal potential.
Since 1978, the Geothermal Institute at the University of Auckland has supported research, development, testing and training for New Zealand and international geothermal industries.
At Kawerau, geothermal steam supports one of the world’s largest geothermal operations, providing electricity and heat for local industry . At Mōkai, renewable geothermal steam helps power Miraka, a Māori-owned dairy-processing company using geothermal energy in whole milk powder production - a world-first approach for the industry.
SOLAR
The sun has plenty to offer too. In 2025, Taranaki claimed the title of New Zealand’s sunshine capital, with New Plymouth recording 2,743 sunshine hours.
Solar still makes up a small share of New Zealand’s electricity generation, but that is changing. Large-scale solar farms are coming online, rooftop solar is becoming more accessible, and falling technology costs are making solar an increasingly practical option for households and businesses.
So, if you’re looking for a country using what nature provides to help shape a cleaner, smarter energy future… we know a place.
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