Warnings a hasty transition to renewable energy could be costly to New Zealand.

Research commissioned by the energy sector, is recommending natural gas be part of the transition away from fossil fuels towards renewables.

But it's found changing too quickly, could create $7 billion in additional energy costs for New Zealand homes and businesses.

Major Gas Users' Group spokesperson Len Houwers says people and businesses need time to adjust and invest in their own gas transition.

He says pushing people away from gas before they have alternatives, means they're forced to pay for less affordable energy or close their New Zealand operations.

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