Green Light For Fossil Fuels A Backwards Step For New Zealand’s Energy FutureJoint media release from WWF-New Zealand and Lawyers for Climate Action NZThe Government’s decision to approve the first permit since overturning the 2018 ban on new offshore oil and gas exploration is a backwards step that won’t improve New Zealand’s energy security or lower power bills, environmental and climate groups say. WWF-New Zealand Interim CEO, Abbie Reynolds, said offshore oil and gas exploration is being sold as an answer to energy security and cost-of-living pressures, but the reality doesn’t stack up. “The answer lies in more investment in clean energy we can build at home, not doubling down on expensive fossil fuel exploration.” "The International Court of Justice has been absolutely clear that new fossil fuel exploration does not align with international legal obligations. “If the goal is reliable, affordable energy, the fastest and cheapest options are clean energy like wind, solar and hydro.