Ecogas and Nova Energy partner to bring first renewable gas to New Zealand market

[Auckland, New Zealand, June 12, 2024] - In a landmark move towards decarbonisation of the New Zealand energy sector, Ecogas and Nova Energy have joined forces to bring the first renewable gas to the New Zealand gas market, accelerating the country’s transition to a circular bioeconomy.

The collaboration between Ecogas, a recognised innovator in circular economy solutions, and Nova Energy, one of New Zealand's largest energy retailers, aims to make renewable gas accessible to a wide range of consumers across New Zealand by leveraging Ecogas' expertise in converting unusable food residues to high value products and Nova Energy's extensive market reach.

Renewable gas, also known as biomethane or green gas, is produced from organic materials such as food scraps, food manufacturing residues or agricultural waste. Through an advanced process of anaerobic digestion, these organic materials are converted into methane, which can be used interchangeably with natural gas in existing gas infrastructure. Unlike fossil fuels, renewable gas offers a low-carbon energy alternative.

"Our strategic partnership with Nova Energy marks a significant step forward in the country's commitment to reducing carbon emissions, embracing renewable energy and gives momentum to realising Ecogas’ vision of closing the food and energy loop for sustainable future," said Alzbeta Bouskova Houghton GM of Ecogas.

"Through gas networks including Nova’s, we can return renewable gas to the households, businesses and industries that contributed their organic waste into our plant. In doing so, we are not only eliminating greenhouse gas emissions that would otherwise be released from the waste going to landfill, but are also avoiding additional emissions by displacing fossil gas in our gas network."

Nova Energy supports Ecogas' vision and New Zealand’s transition to a more sustainable, renewable future. "We are excited to partner with Ecogas to bring renewable gas to New Zealand," said Stephen Troughton of Nova Energy. "This collaboration underscores our dedication to offering our customers cleaner, more sustainable energy options. By working together, we can drive positive change and create a more resilient energy future for all New Zealanders."

The introduction of renewable gas into the New Zealand gas market is expected to have far-reaching benefits, including reducing greenhouse gas emissions, promoting circular economy practices, and enhancing energy security and resilience. Ecogas have partnered with First Renewables, part of New Zealand energy group Clarus (formerly Firstgas Group), to produce the first renewable gas from its plant in Reporoa.

As Ecogas, Nova Energy and First Renewables pave the way for renewable energy innovation, they are setting a new standard for sustainable energy solutions in New Zealand and beyond.

For more information about Ecogas and Nova Energy's partnership and the introduction of renewable gas in New Zealand, please visit Renewable Gas Injection — Ecogas.