A new energy strategy for the region has been applauded by the Eastern Bay of Plenty Chamber of Commerce.
The Bay of Connections governance group released the energy strategy last week. It aims to enhance the value of the region's renewable resources and look at new possibilities to boost economicgrowth.
Eastern Bay of Plenty Chamber of Commerce chief executive Gerard Casey said members were excited about the new strategy and the benefits it could bring to the region.
"The goals of additional energy investments of $3 billion and 13,000 jobs by 2040 and 24,000 jobs by 2040 provide an exciting opportunity for this region and one we need to capitalise on.
"While the strategy is Bay wide, it is important that the Eastern Bay ... grabs this opportunity with both hands to ensure we get jobs for our young people and growth for our region."
Casey said it was important that local councils embraced it and incorporated the strategy into their long term plans as the Eastern Bay of Plenty was in a prime position, with its wealth of geothermal energy and sunshine hours.
"We need to start being forward-thinking and seeing how the region a can play a very proactive role in supporting the Bay of Connections strategy. We should already be starting to think about building an innovation centre that dovetails into these strategies."
Under the strategy, the Bay of Plenty region aims to be a leader in clean, smart and responsible energy, leading ideas and leading innovation, focusing on energy for transport, business and residential use.
