The Canterbury Mayoral Forum has approved the publication of the Canterbury Energy Inventory – a plain-English technical document that provides the first comprehensive overview of the region’s energy landscape across its ten council areas.
The Inventory offers a point-in-time snapshot of Canterbury’s energy system, examining electricity generation, transmission, and consumption across sectors. It identifies regional opportunities and challenges, and places Canterbury within the broader national and global shift toward renewable energy.
Developed in collaboration with the energy sector, local industries, major energy users, councils, and with input from Ngāi Tahu Holdings, the Inventory marks the first phase of a two-stage initiative. It lays the foundation for a strategic energy action plan to support sustainable development and decarbonisation across the region.
Key findings highlight Canterbury’s strong renewable energy potential—particularly in solar and wind—and the need for coordinated investment to meet rising electricity demand, which is forecast to grow by up to 2.8% annually. The report also underscores the importance of energy resilience alongside confidence in energy direction and supply, which is essential for industry support as the region transitions away from fossil fuels.
The Mayoral Forum has also endorsed the second phase of this work, to be led through the Canterbury Economic Development Forum starting mid-2025. This next phase will focus on developing a clear, coordinated regional energy strategy to support industry, drive decarbonisation, enhance energy resilience, and unlock new growth opportunities.
Forum Chair Nigel Bowen says the Mayoral Forum is committed to addressing shared regional priorities. “Energy drives our economy; approving the Energy Inventory is a proud milestone. It’s one that reflects our collective commitment to a resilient, prosperous Canterbury.”
