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The New Zealand Government plans to build a liquefied natural gas (LNG) import facility, funded through a $2-$4 per megawatt-hour levy on electricity users. Energy Minister Simon Watts announced that the government is in the commercial contracting phase, targeting a contract finalization by mid-2026.

The facility, expected to be operational by late 2027 or early 2028, aims to save New Zealand $265 million annually and protect approximately 2000 jobs. This initiative is intended to mitigate energy supply risks during dry years and stabilize power prices.