Hawke’s Bay business leaders are calling for a regional conversation about energy affordability and reliability following recent closures and disruptions impacting the region’s food sector. The Hawke’s Bay Chamber of Commerce will host a summit to explore potential solutions and develop a regional energy strategy.
Rising Costs and Supply Concerns
Members of the Chamber of Commerce have highlighted challenges related to supply, costs, and the transition to sustainable energy sources. In August, Pan Pac paused operations at its pulp mill for two weeks due to wholesale electricity prices spiking to $800 a megawatt hour.
Last week, McCain New Zealand announced the closure of its Hastings vegetable processing plant by 2027. Wattie’s New Zealand managing director Andrew Donegan recently cited a 300% increase in gas prices over seven years, and a doubling of energy costs in the same period, as factors contributing to the closure of several of its factories.
Regional Response and Upcoming Summit
Hastings Mayor Wendy Schollum stated the region needs to identify ways to support affordable and reliable energy to strengthen its food sector and build a resilient economy. Chamber of Commerce chief executive Karla Lee said the feedback underscores the need for a regional discussion on energy.
“The cost, the risk and the uncertainty are real, and leaders are looking for clarity on what comes next,” Lee said.
The upcoming summit will explore options including improving energy efficiency, better utilizing existing resources, and considering solar, bio-energy, and broader infrastructure changes. Lee indicated the event will serve as the starting point for developing a regional energy strategy.
A date and location for the summit have not yet been announced. Interested businesses can register at the Hawke’s Bay Chamber of Commerce website.
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