19 Jul 2019

Don't overlook energy efficiency warns EECA

From Nine To Noon, 9:09 am on 19 July 2019
Electricity pylon.

Electricity pylon. Photo: AFP

The widespread impact of even small scale energy efficiencies in technology use are being highlighted in the latest modelling by the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority.

Installing things like LED lighting, and high-temperature heat pumps could save the equivalent of 4,000 gigawatt-hours of electricity - about 10 percent of current annual demand. EECA says the usual mind set is to build more renewable generation, but investment in energy efficient technology is often overlooked. And it warns that overlooking this creates a risk that we might build more generation than needed, resulting in higher than necessary costs.

Meanwhile the Government is looking at energy efficiency ratings for its offices. Kathryn Ryan talks to EECA's Chief Executive Andrew Caseley.