Investment opportunities

Employment

Investment in bioenergy applications presents significant opportunities for job creation. The collection and processing of biomass into fuel, along with its transportation to heat plants, generate employment in multiple sectors. Additionally, as demand for wood fuel increases, the cultivation of energy crops will further expand job opportunities in forestry and related industries.

Cleantech Investment Opportunities

Bioenergy presents substantial clean tech investment opportunities and already plays a key role in New Zealand’s energy landscape, supplying over 9% of the country’s energy. According to Bioenergy Association analysis, biomass and organic waste resources could contribute up to 27% of the national energy supply.

With abundant natural resources and a reliable feedstock from extensive forestry and agricultural assets, New Zealand has significant untapped potential in bioenergy. To support investment, the New Zealand Trade and Enterprise department through its Invest New Zealand programme, identifies and assists potential investors.  Their cleantech  prospectus outlines numerous opportunities, including a pipeline of specific opportunities, including bioenergy projectd currently being supported.

Regional Economic Sustainability

Each region in New Zealand has extensive forestry and woodlot opportunities, providing a valuable source of biomass that can be processed into wood fuel. Wood residues from forest harvesting and wood processing have the potential to meet regional energy demand efficiently.

Forestry is seamlessly integrated into agriculture and horticulture, ensuring sustainable soil management for generations to come. Strategic planting, such as shelterbelts, riparian zones, and erosion control, enhances farm resilience while optimising soil productivity. On steep slopes, long-rotation species like Pinus radiata are well-suited, whereas short-rotation species thrive in more accessible terrain. Fast-growing crops like miscanthus offer an annual harvest, further diversifying bioenergy options.

The integration of forestry and agriculture strengthens rural communities by creating jobs, supporting local economies and sustaining essential services such as schools and shops.