Update - July 2009
The Sponsors have decided not to proceed with consent applications at this time and Gasbridge remains a backstop option.
Read the information sheet [1.2MB pdf]
Conservation and Renewable Energy
The Sponsors are investing heavily to promote conservation and to develop renewable energy sources. Read more ...
Visualisations
Computer generated images showing how the proposed LNG terminal might look, from 14 different view points around the port and coastal areas.
Open Days
Public open days were held on 1 and 2 March, providing updated information about the project and on study results to date.
Fact Sheet 2
Fact Sheet 2 has been distributed to residences in the general area of Port Taranaki. It is also available for download.
Timing and community consultation process
Contact and Genesis Energy will fully consult with the community on the proposed LNG import terminal at Port Taranaki. Read the full article
Myths & Facts
Find out about the Myths and Facts regarding LNG.
Gasbridge is a joint project between Contact Energy and Genesis Energy to preserve the option of importing natural gas, if required in the future.
Gasbridge and liquefied natural gas (LNG)
Natural gas is a critical fuel for New Zealand. A quarter of our electricity is generated with natural gas and many homes, businesses and industries rely upon supplies of secure natural gas for heating and manufacturing.
The Gasbridge project allows the option of importing natural gas if, in the future, there is not enough domestic natural gas to keep powering our homes and our economy. If a shortage of domestic natural gas was to eventuate, importing natural gas would ensure a safe, secure supply of natural gas for New Zealand.
The Gasbridge project preserves the option of importing natural gas into a new terminal at Port Taranaki. The gas would be transported in the form of liquefied natural gas (LNG), and imports could provide around half of New Zealand's current total demand.
A number of countries import natural gas in this way. If imports were required, the LNG would be unloaded at Port Taranaki and stored in custom-built tanks at the site of the New Plymouth Power Station. From there the LNG would be warmed back into a gas and piped using the existing gas pipeline system directly to our homes, factories, hospitals, industry and electricity generation plants.
How a LNG terminal might look
View the Gasbridge Video
This website
explains why it is prudent for New Zealand to preserve the LNG backstop option
provides answers to frequently asked questions about LNG
demonstrates what a new LNG terminal at Port Taranaki might look like
gives you the opportunity to contact us with any other questions you may have
We will regularly update this website with information on the project timing and community consultation process, and how you can have your say.
Gasbridge is a significant project designed to ensure the future reliability of New Zealand's energy supply. It is also a major business development for both companies. We have put a great deal of thought into preserving the LNG option. We welcome your feedback and questions.
