Uncertainty over the future of the Tiwai Point Aluminium Smelter has helped shape Southland's new renewable energy strategy which is out for consultation
Owner Rio Tinto threatened to close the smelter over high electricity costs, but made a deal with power companies in 2021 to keep it operational for another four years.
Green hydrogen from new wind farms, biomass and hydro are also up for consultation.
Southland Regional Development Agency strategic projects general manager Stephen Canny spoke to Corin Dann.
