EECA funds growth of solar hot water heating market

The Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA) announced this week the launch of a revised incentive scheme designed to grow the solar water heating market.

Under the scheme, an ongoing Government initiative, money can be borrowed on an interest free basis to pay for the purchase and installation of a system.

Solar water heating has huge potential to reduce electricity demand, but that depends on New Zealanders’ awareness of solar as a viable option for households and businesses said Heather Staley, Chief Executive of EECA.

“Solar is a renewable source of energy, which is better for the environment, and for many people it is an extremely cost effective option.

“Water heating represents up to half of a household’s power bill, and the installation of a solar water heating system can cut these costs by up to 75 percent.

More than 22,000 homes in New Zealand currently have solar heating. EECA is working with the Solar Industry Association to find innovative ways to increase this number.

“It is encouraging that in the last 12 months approximately 1700 new solar water heating systems have been installed in New Zealand homes. This is an increase of 21% on the previous year,” said Ms Staley.

People wanting more information on solar heating as an option should visit the Solar Industry Association website www.solarindustries.org.nz or www.solarsmarter.org.nz.

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