Overview

BusinessNZ Energy Council (BEC) is a New Zealand industry organisation representing energy businesses, government agencies and research institutions. Operating as a division of BusinessNZ and the New Zealand member committee of the World Energy Council, it was active by 2015, although its precise establishment year is not confirmed on its website.

Its mission is to support a sustainable, affordable and secure energy system through research, collaboration and policy engagement.

Mission and focus areas

BEC focuses on energy security, affordability, decarbonisation, renewable energy, transport and energy policy. Its work examines New Zealand’s transition towards a net-zero economy, balancing environmental sustainability with economic competitiveness and reliable energy supply.

Its research supports sustainable investment by analysing energy infrastructure requirements, technology transitions, policy uncertainty and long-term energy demand. These insights help investors and financial institutions assess transition risks, capital allocation opportunities and energy-related sustainability considerations.

Structure and governance

BEC operates within BusinessNZ through a membership-based structure comprising energy companies, government organisations, researchers and other stakeholders. It is chaired by Greg Lowe, with Tina Schirr serving as Executive Director.

Members participate in council meetings, research projects, policy consultations and industry discussions. BEC also collaborates internationally through the World Energy Council, connecting New Zealand’s energy sector with global expertise and policy developments.

Programs and offerings

BEC publishes energy scenarios, policy submissions, research reports and industry briefings. Its principal analytical resources include the TIMES-NZ energy modelling framework, Energy Trilemma assessments and World Energy Issues Monitor.

The TIMES-NZ scenarios examine potential long-term changes in energy supply, demand, technology and emissions. BEC also organises industry events, policy discussions and professional development through its Young Energy Professionals Network.

For finance and sustainability practitioners, these resources provide evidence for energy investment planning, climate transition analysis, infrastructure financing and assessment of regulatory and market developments.

The BusinessNZ Energy Council (BEC) is a dynamic coalition comprising prominent energy-sector businesses, government entities, and research organizations. Our mission is to play a pivotal role in forging a sustainable, equitable, and secure energy future.