Promoting Geothermal Links

The Embassy, together with the Santiago Office of New Zealand Trade and Enterprise, recently hosted ten representatives from the NZ geothermal industry who were in Chile for a Geothermal Seminar organised by the Chilean Geothermal Association, ACHEGEO. The seminar was attended by 450 people and included a presentation by Blair Dickie, Principal Policy Advisor, Environment Waikato and a joint presentation by Mark Trigg, General Manager – Development, Mighty River Power and Aroha Campbell, CEO, Tauhara North No.2 Trust. 

The complete New Zealand group included representatives from Mighty River Power, Tauhara North No.2 Trust, GNS Science, Auckland University Geothermal Institute, Environment Waikato, Cheal and MB Century. 

Geothermal energy represents approximately 14% of New Zealand's electricity generation. Chile has even greater geothermal reserves than New Zealand but does not yet have any plants operating. Through his visit Blair Dickie was share his experience and knowledge of geothermal regulation with Chilean officials. 

For more about the Chilean Geothermal Association's seminar visit: www.achegeo.cl 

To learn more about geothermal energy in New Zealand visit: www.med.govt.nz/sectors-industries/natural-resources/geothermal