EECA's latest news No Images? Click here PwC report finds energy efficiency investment 'gap'A new report by PwC finds that an energy efficiency 'gap' exists when it comes to investment in more energy efficiency and carbon reduction measures. The Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA) commissioned PwC to interview processors of dairy, meat, wood and other products, to find out more about their investment decisions on process heat. Nine large process heat users, including Fonterra and Alliance Group, were interviewed. The study also includes a literature review and overseas case studies. Process heat (steam, hot water or gases used in industrial processes for manufacturing) accounts for nine percent of the country’s gross greenhouse gas emissions, with 60 percent of process heat energy demand being supplied by fossil fuels, such as gas and coal. EECA’s chief executive Andrew Caseley says;
As well as making equipment more efficient, Mr Caseley says that woody biomass and electrical technologies are increasingly becoming viable alternatives to fossil-fueled boilers when investment in new plant is being considered. PwC’s study finds that the organisations interviewed are doing a good job of managing their energy use and are making financially-sensible decisions. But the gap exists in part because funding for energy efficiency improvement projects can be constrained by them having to compete with other capital projects. See the full report here.
EECA's new strategyHelping New Zealanders to lower the emissions from their energy use is a key focus of EECA’s new strategic direction. The Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority’s 2018–22 Statement of Intent outlines its ambitious purpose to:
EECA’s Chief Executive Andrew Caseley says while New Zealand is lucky enough to have 85 percent renewable electricity, “the bigger picture is that we’re still heavily reliant on fossil fuels to meet a lot of our energy needs.” 40 percent of New Zealand’s greenhouse gas emissions come from energy use in transport, factories, heating and electricity supply. Nearly 70 percent of New Zealand’s energy consumption comes from non-renewable energy (MBIE, 2017). EECA’s increasing focus is on the use of renewable energy and energy efficiency to lower carbon emissions across the energy sector. EECA’s analysis suggests that efficient lighting, electric vehicles, industrial heat pumps and other new tech are some of the best opportunities for New Zealand to reduce its emissions. Mr Caseley says New Zealand is well placed to develop a low emissions economy as part of a resilient response to climate change, but “a lot of work is required to make that a reality.”
Mr Caseley says EECA’s new strategy builds upon its record of high quality analysis and market experience. He says a key aim is to identify solutions and connect people to them and to get the most ‘bang for its buck’. Picture: Meridian's Benmore hydro station. New Rightware tool compares energy usageEECA Energywise has launched a new online tool to help shoppers avoid buying power hungry appliances. Efficient Products Manager Eddie Thompson says the new Rightware tool gives consumers information about the energy efficiency of appliances, as well as letting people compare and filter products for factors such as brand and size.
For example, depending on the model you choose, the running cost of a new fridge/freezer over a 10 year period could be between $600 and $2,000, Mr Thompson says. For the initial launch of Rightware, six popular consumer categories are included; heat pump air conditioners, televisions, fridge/freezers, clothes washers, clothes dryers and dishwashers. Other appliances, including some commercial products, will be added over the coming months. Mr Thompson says EECA Energywise developed Rightware because consumers want more information online so they can research appliances before they go to the store. You can try out the tool here. EECA welcomes new Group ManagerEECA is welcoming Eddie Christian as its new Group Manager Market Engagement. Mr Christian starts with EECA in late September, when he finishes his current position as Head of Southern Region for HSBC. Eddie Christian has held other roles in the banking sector including with the Bank of New Zealand. He has worked globally in both recruitment and banking, which included an 18 month stint in Singapore. In his early career, Mr Christian was a commissioned officer in the Royal New Zealand Navy. Warmer Kiwi Homes off to flying startThe Government's new $142 million insulation programme Warmer Kiwi Homes is powering ahead, following its launch in July. Grants cover two-thirds of the cost of ceiling and underfloor insulation, and target people and families who live in low decile areas, or have a community services card, as well as families referred by the Ministry of Health's Healthy Homes Initiative. The Minister for Energy, Hon Dr Megan Woods launched the new scheme in Christchurch, with homeowner Pam being one of the first recipients. EVworld in AucklandEVworld in Auckland was another huge success with 4,400 people attending the event in August. EECA launched a new Buyer's Guide to Electric Vehicles which includes tips on choosing between a battery EV and a plug-in hybrid EV, assessing battery health, maximising range and how to charge easily and safely. We have produced the brochure as part of EECA's information campaign to accelerate the uptake of EVs in New Zealand. EECA’s chief executive Andrew Caseley spoke at EVworld about the progress being made in getting more EV charging infrastructure around the country and EVs on the road, including what is happening at a Government level to support this. Mr Caseley said EVworld brings representatives from multiple sectors together to look at the “opportunities and challenges of transitioning to a low emissions transport system.” “It was great to see such a broad range of exhibitors, displaying everything from e-bikes to trucks. It’s an exciting time to be involved with electric vehicles, with manufacturers bringing out new models with larger batteries in the near future.” Mr Caseley said the event was also a great opportunity to acknowledge those who contribute to the growth of the EV sector. Got an idea to support increasing the number of EVs on our roads, particularly for heavy vehicles or to close gaps in charging infrastructure? You may be eligible for funding. The Low Emission Vehicles Contestable Fund Round Five is now open until 8am, 19 September 2018. |