Hydrogen Momentum Showcased at Taranaki Energy Event

The growing maturity of Aotearoa New Zealand’s hydrogen sector was on full display at the Hydrogen Council’s latest Speaker Series event in Taranaki last week. 

The sold-out event attracted more than 120 attendees and focused on energy security and resilience, including industry leaders sharing insights on the opportunities shaping New Zealand’s energy future. 

A highlight of the event was live demonstrations of two hydrogen-powered trucks; one fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) and one dual-fuel truck, provided by TR Group. 

Hiringa Energy’s Head of New Business, Ryan McDonald, said the event reflected increasing momentum and optimism across the sector. 

“The strong turnout from across transport, energy, and both local and central government highlights the growing recognition of energy security as a nationally significant issue, and hydrogen’s role in addressing it,” McDonald said. 

Associate Minister for Energy Shane Jones spoke at the event, outlining the government’s role in supporting hydrogen development and acknowledging Hiringa’s leadership in advancing innovative energy solutions. 

McDonald noted a shift in dialogue from previous years. 

“Not long ago, discussions centred on building a case for hydrogen supply and demand. Now, the focus is on delivery and expanding real-world applications. It’s no longer about ‘if’ or ‘when’, it’s about ‘how’ and ‘how quickly.’” 

Hiringa co-founder and CEO Andy Clennett presented on hydrogen’s role in strengthening energy resilience, supporting price and supply stability, reducing reliance on imported fossil fuels, and accelerating the transition to renewables. 

Other speakers included Clarus CEO Paul Goodeve, Transpower’s John Clarke, Obayashi NZ COO Peter Kell, and the Electricity Authority’s Hayden Glass. 

McDonald said the event underscored a broader shift across the energy sector. 

“There’s a clear sense that New Zealand is at an inflection point. The need to transition to low carbon alternatives has long been understood, but recent developments have brought greater urgency around sovereign energy generation. 

“That urgency is driving investment in renewable infrastructure, and New Zealand is well-positioned to deliver. With our natural resources and strong industry leadership, we have the opportunity to become a global model for future energy systems.”