The Government isn't giving a firm figure on what'll be paid to build a liquefied natural gas import facility in Taranaki.

It's aiming to sign a contract by mid-year.

It says it'll save the country about $265 million a year - about $50 dollars per household - and protect about 2000 jobs. 

An electricity levy of $2-$4 per megawatt-hour will fund the infrastructure.

Energy Minister Simon Watts says limited gas supply contributed to the recent increase in energy crisis and the Government needs to establish a new supply.

"That'll take the risk and put certainty back in to ensure we do have gas in a dry year, and with that, that provides benefits through to the broader country." 

LISTEN ABOVE

The Government isn't giving a firm figure on what'll be paid to build a liquefied natural gas import facility in Taranaki.
It's aiming to sign a contract by mid-year.
It says it'll save the country about $265 million a year - about $50 dollars per household - and protect about 2000 jobs.&nbsp;
An electricity levy of $2-$4 per megawatt-hour will fund the infrastructure.
Energy Minister Simon Watts says limited gas supply contributed to the recent increase in energy crisis and the Government needs to establish a new supply.
"That'll take the risk and put certainty back in to ensure we do have gas in a dry year, and with that, that provides benefits through to the broader country."&nbsp;
LISTEN ABOVE

With a straight down the middle approach, Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive on Newstalk ZB delivers the very latest news and views to New Zealanders as they wrap up their day.

Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive

Simon Watts: Energy Minister on the Government launching a new LNG facility designed to boost economic growth

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/7784f840-c291-422a-924b-ad9000bbad71/clips/6f97607c-307b-40c0-9135-b3ec00573a2a/transcript