Last week, our Research Consultant Karoline Spiessl attended Geothermal Week in Taupō, joining the programme for two highly insightful days on 11–12 August 2026.
Day 1 started off with considerations and case studies on the pipelines regulations, continued with geothermal energy for industrial and commercial gas users – a highly relevant topic for our digital business trip in November where we will look at solutions for decarbonisation and energy efficiency in industry and commerce. The day was rounded off with an interactive session by Transpower where the audience was tasked with reimagining the national power grid in 2050.
Day 2 centred on the NZGA Winter Seminar, which explored the leadership needed to drive the geothermal sector's next phase of growth. The programme opened with discussions on Te Ao Māori Leadership, highlighting the important role of iwi and Māori trusts as kaitiaki, investors and long-term partners in geothermal development.
The seminar then turned to Knowledge & Services Export Leadership, showcasing how New Zealand's geothermal expertise, engineering services and operational know-how are increasingly being exported to projects around the world. This was followed by a session on Innovation Leadership, featuring developments in geothermal technology, new applications, and opportunities to strengthen the sector's contribution to New Zealand's low-emissions future.
Afternoon discussions focused on some of the industry's key enablers. A session on Workforce and Skills-Based Leadership examined the challenges of attracting, developing and retaining the skilled workforce needed to support future growth. The subsequent Capital Investment Leadership panel explored financing pathways and investment opportunities required to unlock the next generation of geothermal projects and infrastructure.
The seminar concluded with a forward-looking discussion on International Collaboration Leadership, underlining the importance of global partnerships, knowledge exchange and cross-border cooperation. For the German-New Zealand Chamber of Commerce, this was a particularly relevant theme, highlighting opportunities for stronger collaboration between New Zealand and international partners on geothermal, industrial decarbonisation and clean energy solutions.
Overall, the Geothermal Week once again demonstrated that geothermal energy is far more than a source of renewable electricity. As New Zealand pursues ambitious decarbonisation goals, geothermal technologies are playing an increasingly important role in industrial heat, energy security, innovation and international cooperation.
If you have any questions or would like more information, don't hesitate to reach out to us.
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Karoline Spiessl
Research Consultant
