Kiwi Energy Efficiency Challenge

Issued by the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA)

MEDIA RELEASE

27 March 2008

Kiwi Energy Efficiency Challenge

The Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA) is challenging all New Zealanders to adopt two easy energy efficient actions that can become part of their everyday routine.

Mike Underhill, Chief Executive of EECA, says getting local communities behind Earth Hour, taking place around the world this Saturday 29 March, has again highlighted the issue of climate change and how simple steps to reduce our energy consumption can make a real difference to the environment and our pockets.

Mr Underhill would like to see every Kiwi commit to ongoing action that contributes towards improving New Zealand’s sustainability while saving money on energy bills.

“Adopting energy efficient actions is not hard to do and can quickly become habitual. Everyone has a part to play, and everyone has the power to choose what measures – however small - work for them. There is a huge amount of energy wasted everyday on things such as leaving your television on stand-by instead of switching it off at the wall. We’re saying – think about where you can make a difference and just do it!”

There are lots of actions people can take to become more energy efficient around the home and at work and many of them are free or low-cost. Adopt any of these simple measures to get started:

- Use a heated towel rail for just a few hours a day instead of all the time and save $70-$140 a year. Better still, dry your towels outside for free!
- Use the clothesline rather than the dryer – save up to $130 a year.
- Use cold water for laundry rather than warm water – save around $50 a year.
- Switch off or get rid of the spare fridge – save $200 a year.
- Install an energy efficient, low flow showerhead – these save about $70-$140 a year and won’t compromise the water pressure.
- Turn off appliances at the wall rather than leaving them on stand-by.
- Choose energy efficient appliances. Look for the energy rating label and the ENERGYSTAR mark when purchasing appliances.
- Drive your car less - walk or take public transport instead.

More information on energy efficient actions and tips can be found at www.energywise.govt.nz or by calling 0800 749 782.

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