Legislative and Policy Regime Governing the Generation of Wind Energy in New Zealand

Abstract

This article examines closely the legislative and policy regime governing the generation of wind energy in New Zealand. New Zealand's wind energy industry has the highest growth rate worldwide. The country's wind energy development potential is considered to be significant. However, the development of wind farms in New Zealand is not without controversy. New Zealand is a country with magnificent landscapes, a unique flora and fauna, and a precious cultural heritage that might be endangered by uncontrolled wind energy development. Thus, it is the objective of this article to analyse whether and how the benefits and adverse effects of wind power generation can be balanced. The article will focus on the question of whether and how New Zealand law and policy can promote an ecologically compatible utilisation of wind energy, effectively encouraging wind farms and, at the same time, addressing their adverse environmental effects.