Making energy savings pay

Operating in an environmentally friendly way has, generally, cost money — but you take the hit because it’s the right thing to do. Well, this might not be so for much longer.

A new programme now means Christchurch SMEs can get up to $30,000 towards improving their energy use.

The Christchurch City Council has been contracted under the Government’s Energising Business programme to help companies reduce energy use and costs.

Run by the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA), Energising Business covers up to a third of the cost of identifying and putting in place energy-saving measures, with individual businesses’ eligible for up to $30,000. Any company spending less than $300,000 annually on energy per site, could qualify.

The Council will offer Energising Business grants to members of its Target Sustainability scheme for businesses. The scheme, which has been running for four years, has worked with over 130 companies to assist them reduce waste and costs, and run more efficiently.

EECA chief executive Mike Underhill says a more energy efficient and competitive business sector could benefit the whole Canterbury region.

“Energy savings go straight to the bottom line, making businesses more robust, productive and competitive, which is good for the region and for the country. Particularly at a time when many Christchurch companies are facing rebuilding, it’s an excellent time to consider energy use and how those savings are locked in — strengthening business for years to come.”
Many significant energy saving measures paid for themselves in a year or less, Underhill says.
Christchurch City Council Water and Waste manager Mark Christison says the initiative is good news. “This funding will help eligible businesses, who we have already been working with through our Target Sustainability initiatives, in their efforts to become more energy efficient.”

To find out more about Christchurch City Council’s Target Sustainability programme visit www.targetsustainability.co.nz