Minister Shane Jones Highlights Hydrogen Opportunities for Regional Growth and Energy Security

On 12 August 2026, Regional Development Minister Hon Shane Jones addressed the New Zealand Hydrogen Hui, emphasizing the fuel's potential to transform the nation's energy landscape and regional economies. Speaking at the event organized by the New Zealand Hydrogen Council, Earth Sciences New Zealand, and the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, Jones welcomed international delegations from Japan, Singapore, and the European Union. Jones framed hydrogen as a vital component of a secure and affordable energy mix rather than a single solution. He noted that for New Zealand, the opportunity spans the entire value chain—including renewable hydrogen from electricity resources and emerging technologies. This development is expected to strengthen industrial capability and create high-value jobs across the country's regions, contributing to long-term national prosperity. According to the Minister, hydrogen offers a path to improved energy security by reducing reliance on imported fuels and chemical feedstocks. He highlighted its specific utility in decarbonizing hard-to-electrify sectors, such as heavy transport, aviation, marine applications, and industrial processes. By diversifying the energy system, New Zealand aims to build greater resilience against increasingly uncertain global energy markets. The Minister also touched upon the potential of natural and "orange" hydrogen as new resource opportunities. He maintained that responsibly developed natural resources are the foundation for economic growth. The speech concluded with a commitment to providing greater regulatory certainty to support industry investment, reflecting feedback from recent government consultations on hydrogen models.