EECA supporting Kiwi businesses to decarbonise

Energy contributes a substantial proportion of Aotearoa New Zealand’s carbon footprint – nearly 42 per cent of total emissions when stationary energy and transport are included. 

The Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA)’s purpose is to mobilise New Zealanders to be world leaders in clean and clever energy use. Their strategic focus areas include low-emissions business, low-emissions transport, government leadership, energy-efficient homes, and creating public engagement that wins hearts and minds. Businesses are in varying states of readiness for decarbonising. EECA is the government agency tasked with supporting NZ businesses through the process.

EECA administers the Government Investment in Decarbonising Industry (or GIDI) fund, which exists to bridge a funding gap identified by research as the most critical barrier to businesses decarbonising, and was recently expanded to almost $1 billion over seven years – building on the success of the first three rounds. Its carbon abatement targets are ambitious and aim to prevent 1.66 million tonnes of CO2 entering New Zealand skies by December 2025 and 14.5 million tonnes by December 2030. 

Further EECA support is available for smaller projects, as well as for work needed to unlock the decarbonisation journey.

The Sector Decarbonisation Programme run by EECA, tackles New Zealand’s large SME market one sector at a time, leveraging similar challenges and opportunities. They create a decarbonisation pathway for each sector in collaboration with its industry association. A five-step decarbonisation plan includes tailored resources for businesses in that sector to support energy efficiency and emissions reduction. Further details can be found here.

EECA's Low Emission Transport Fund (LETF) supports the adoption of low emissions transport technology, innovation and infrastructure to tackle the country’s transport emissions. Funding rounds will have specific focuses, including vehicle demonstration and technology; offroad and maritime applications; and public charging infrastruture.

Anyone is welcome to learn about their offerings and updates by registering to their newsletters or webinars. 

EECA is the category sponsor for the Large Energy User of the Year Award at this year's New Zealand Energy Excellence Awards. 

To enter the awards, click here. 
Click here to purchase tickets to attend the awards ceremony on  30 August, 2023 at the Te Pae Conference Centre in Christchurch.