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Salient. Newspaper of the Victoria University Students' Association. Vol 42 No. 4. March 19 1979

The official energy policy

[unclear: The] official energy policy

The development of energy resources New Zealand is largely dictated by the [unclear: ge] transnational oil companies. Maui gas, for example, is being rapidly harnessed in a way that guarantees quick profits for the foreign investors. Maui gas is not renewable. South Island coal, known by the Government for many years to be suitable for turning into petrol, is now running the risk of being offered to West Germany. That country will, if the proposal goes ahead, bring in the technology, plant and capital to initiate the conversion. Our coal fields will be rapidly depicted, the Germans will make a fast profit, and some of the country's best farming land will be destroyed by open strip mining. Coal is not renewable either.

This is not to argue that our coal or gas shouldn't be used at all. But when it is used it should always be on the basis of serving New Zealand's energy needs in such a way the greatest long term benefit is gained. Overseas investment in the development of our energy resources and the conversion of coal to petrol do not have this aim and are not the only alternatives.