The country has strongly expressed its support for reducing its carbon emission. In fact, the Climate Change Commission has released its draft plan to achieve a neutral carbon NZ by around 2050. In line with that, the government has proposed that by 2025, they will no longer allow for new natural gas connections.

So what does this mean for homeowners planning to build or renovate their property? Should you be worried? Learn more about the natural gas connections ban in NZ below.

What Homeowners Should Expect

If the proposed ban pushes through this May, you must consider a few things before planning a renovation or building project, you may need to double-check your hot water or heating system. If you have chosen a natural gas or LPG system, you might need to switch to an electrical alternative, which isn’t a bad thing! These days hot water heat pumps can offer up to 75% savings in power when compared to traditional electric hot water cylinders and are more efficient than gas systems.

To help you understand how the proposed ban might impact your household (or life in general), you can check out some quick facts and stats below:

●       Existing connections will continue to get natural gas from the network 

Take note that the proposed ban will only cover new connections. If you already have an existing supply line, you won’t get affected by the ban.

●       Using bottled gas for camping and BBQs is still okay

Are you worried that you won’t be able to use your LPG BBQ when you go on a camping trip? Rest assured, this won’t be a problem even after the government starts implementing the ban. You can still purchase gas canisters or swap empty gas bottles at a local filling station.

Typically, such products don’t release high amounts of carbon into the air, so the commission doesn’t find it necessary to impose any strict measures at the moment.

However, do note that this exemption applies to LPG gas tanks at home. If you want to have an LPG Gas Water Heating installed be sure to get it installed before 2025

●       Uninstalling Natural Gas water heaters is not necessary

Many homeowners wonder if they need to ditch their gas-fired heaters to comply with the new ruling. After all, gas-powered water heaters are far cheaper to run than the electric type. If you have the same concern, you would be pleased to know that you won’t need to uninstall your existing water heating system.

However, take note that if you need to replace it after the ban gets implemented, you will likely have to transition into an electricity-powered heater. You might only get exempted from the ruling if you present proof that your house or building doesn’t have viable options for low-carbon water heating systems.

●       There are plenty of factors you should consider when comparing costs between Gas Water Heating and Electric water heating here are a few examples

When you are comparing Gas Water Heating to a standard Electric Water Cylinder, the Gas unit will be more efficient, natural gas is typically more efficient than LPG, so if you have a Natural gas connection it will save you money long term taking advantage of the connection (so long as you install it before 2025)

If you DO NOT have a natural gas connection but still want a gas power unit, you are limited to “on demand” or “continuous flow” units, which offer the benefit of not having to keep water hot at all times as they only heat the water while you use it. These units are perfect for all sized families as they can offer unlimited hot water but will still save you money if you only have 1-2 people living in the house

What if you want the best efficiency but do not want to use a gas-powered system? Hot Water Heat Pumps are the answer for you! Not only are they completely environmentally friendly they are able to offer you consistent savings on your power bill and are far more efficient than any gas unit!  

Work with a Professional To Help You Make Changes

Although the intentions of the proposed natural gas connections ban are good, many homeowners were quite taken aback. Indeed, this shift can heavily impact several homes in New Zealand that rely on natural gas or LPG.

If you worry about how it would affect your household, you can consult with professionals. Note that besides natural gas and electricity, there are other energy sources that you can tap into in the country. A few examples of which include solar and heat pump technology. 

Furthermore, we also recommend planning your renovations and other similar projects carefully to include adjustments concerning the proposed ban. This way, you can determine how much extra money you need to prepare to shift from a new system.

Feel free to get in touch with our team of specialists today for more information about the natural gas connections ban.