New Zealand Passes RMA Amendment to Fast-Track Energy Consenting

WELLINGTON, New Zealand, September 2, 2025 – New Zealand’s energy sector has secured a major policy shift with Parliament recently passing the Resource Management (Consenting and Other System Changes) Amendment Bill at its third reading, opening the way for faster consenting of both renewable and thermal generation projects.

The new legislation introduces a streamlined consenting pathway for specified energy activities, with a requirement that decisions be made within 12 months. The move is expected to reduce costs for operators and unlock much-needed investment in renewable energy infrastructure while also ensuring backup generation capacity can be delivered.

Energy Resources Aotearoa, which has been advocating for this reform, welcomed the amendment as a “big win” for households, businesses, and the wider economy.

“Renewables will power more and more of New Zealand’s future energy needs, but we need firming capacity to step in when the weather doesn’t co-operate,” said John Carnegie, Chief Executive of Energy Resources Aotearoa. “This decision means we can plan and build the backup generation that keeps the grid stable and the country’s economy and industrial base humming.”

Thermal Generation Included

A key feature of the new law is the inclusion of thermal generation—such as gas-fired peaking plants—in the same streamlined consenting settings as renewables. These plants are seen as vital for balancing the system during periods of low wind, reduced hydro storage, or limited solar output.

Carnegie noted that this approach reflects the organisation’s long-standing call for a fuel-agnostic consenting framework.

“We’ve long argued for a fuel-agnostic approach where projects are judged on their merits, not their fuel or technology type. Parliament has recognised that reality today, and it’s a vital step toward a more secure system that provides the energy abundance New Zealand needs to thrive.”

Whole-of-System Approach

The amendment represents a significant shift in New Zealand’s resource management framework, taking a whole-of-system view of electricity supply. By recognising the interdependence of renewable and thermal generation, the government aims to provide the stability and reliability required as the country transitions to a lower-emissions future.

Energy Resources Aotearoa commended the government for the reform, emphasising that both renewable and firming capacity will be needed to ensure long-term energy security.