7139 (2026). Hon Dr Megan Woods to the Minister for Energy

Written Question

Published date: 18 Mar 2026

Metadata

Document type:	Written Question
Parliament number:	54
Question number:	7139 (2026)
Question asked:	03 Mar 2026
Member asking:	Hon Dr Megan Woods
Portfolio:	Minister for Energy
Minister replying:	Hon Simon Watts
Answer received:	12 Mar 2026
Status:	Question Answered
Reply type:	Reply
Document ID:	WQ_07139_2026
Document guid:	eb0c7d36-a6dc-4f62-a322-a262f95ac71f

7139 (2026). Hon Dr Megan Woods to the Minister for Energy: What is the comparative emissions impact of LNG versus solar generation?

Hon Simon Watts: In New Zealand's energy system, thermal fuel, including gas, is primarily used as a backup to renewable energy. On a per-MWh basis, solar has lower emissions than gas; however, in the context of firming and dry-year coverage, the two play different roles.