Volume One 18. Energy security of supply and reducing stress on the National Electricity Grid. The preference for renewable sources of energy also assists in avoiding reliance on imported fuels for electricity generation. It is acknowledged that yields from renewable energy resources can be variable as a result of climatic and other conditions. However, utilising the wide range of renewable energy resources available should spread that risk and improve the resilience of energy supply. The implementation of the policy will have the effect of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and reducing electricity transmission losses. The policy reflects Section 7(j) of the RMA, which requires the Council to have regard to the benefits from the use and development of renewable energy. It will also assist in achieving central government’s target of 90 percent of electricity generated from renewable sources by 2025, as well as giving effect to the objectives and policies of the NPSREG. There are various regulatory and non-regulatory methods for implementing the Council’s policy and those of the NPSREG. [RPS, D] Policy 18.1.2 – Promote and encourage the wide utilisation of solar thermal energy. This policy seeks to ensure that people make the most of solar radiation as a source of renewable energy in Marlborough. Blenheim consistently experiences high sunshine hours in comparison to other centres throughout New Zealand and the remainder of Marlborough also enjoys a sunny climate. Solar radiation is therefore an obvious and abundant source of renewable energy that can be used to generate electricity (via photovoltaic systems) and/or heat hot water (instead of electricity or gas). Solar energy can also be used to passively heat homes and reduce the reliance of alternative forms of heating during the winter months, although this relies on the appropriate orientation of buildings relative to the sun. The effect of orientation is enhanced through the design of the building and the construction materials used. The Council will implement methods to promote and encourage photovoltaic systems, solar water heating and passive heating. This will reduce the reliance of households and businesses on the local distribution network for electricity and other sources of energy. (The Council acknowledges that electricity and the means to convey electricity will still be required to heat water and homes during periods of low solar radiation.) This policy assists to give effect to Policy E1 of the NPSREG. [R, C, D] Policy 18.1.3 - When considering the environmental effects of proposals to use and develop renewable energy resources, to have regard to: (a) the benefits to be obtained from the proposal at local, regional or national levels, including: (i) maintaining or increasing security of renewable electricity supply by diversifying the type and/or location of electricity generation; (ii) maintaining or increasing renewable electricity generation capacity while avoiding, reducing or displacing greenhouse gas emissions; (iii) for economic, social or cultural wellbeing; and (b) effects on the immediate and surrounding environment, including effects on air quality, water quality, water quantity, ecosystems, natural character, outstanding landscapes, visual amenities and from noise; (c) the degree of effect (extent, magnitude) and the degree to which unavoidable adverse effects can be remedied or mitigated, including the relative degree of reversibility of the adverse effects associated with the proposed generation technologies; 18 – 3