New administration mixed blessing for wind

The outcome of the New Zealand election, which saw a conservative National-led government take office, spells likely changes on the way for the country's wind market, some of which may be positive. On the negative side, the centre-right coalition has announced that New Zealand's ambitious emissions trading scheme is to be put on hold pending a major review. On the other hand, the Resource Management Act, seen by many as a major stumbling block in getting wind project development approved, is likely to be reviewed and revised. New Prime Minister John Key wants to make it easier for companies to get the go ahead for large scale renewable projects. Meantime, incoming energy minister Gerry Browlee is seen as having a good understanding of the renewable energy sector, although there is concern that he may lift the moratorium on the construction of fossil fuel power plants.