20 December 2012

Christchurch still using more diesel, but less petrol and electricity

The Christchurch Agency for Energy (CAfE) today released Christchurch energy use figures for the July to September quarter of 2012.

Energy use patterns are consistent with previous CAfE Energy Database updates. Generally, diesel use is significantly up and electricity and petrol use significantly down compared to pre-earthquake usage. For the 12 month period to the end of September, diesel use is up approximately 7%, and Electricity use is lower by 9.5%. cafe.gen.nz/db

Merv Altments, CAfE CEO says, "The immediate opportunity for Christchurch is in ensuring that renewable energy sources and energy efficiency principles are integrated into the commercial and residential rebuild of our city. We can make better use of energy sources through improvements in the building envelope, newer heating technologies, better use of passive design, natural lighting and heat, and by more efficient use vehicles. Use of solar, ground source and other forms of renewable energy are also being considered.

"Christchurch has the opportunity to improve energy use and lower the percentage of energy being sourced from non-renewable sources. The high use of non-renewable energy in transport continues to be a significant issue. Diesel and petrol comprise nearly between 45 and 60% of Christchurch's energy, averaging 55%. and the pollution cost and reliance on overseas supply makes this a long term target for Christchurch and CAfE," said Mr Altments.

Fossil fuels comprise on average 64% of Christchurch's energy use.

Energy patterns are likely to remain relatively constant in the medium term as Christchurch's energy use has settled into the 'new normal' with deconstruction/construction work making a significant impact.

www.cafe.gen.nz/db

Diesel use, even with seasonal adjustment, is at a level higher than before the earthquake sequence and petrol use is still below levels for the same period in previous to other years.

The database can be accessed here:http://www.cafe.gen.nz/db

About CAfE & the Energy Database

CAfE was established by the Christchurch City Council, and is supported by Efficiency and Conservation Authority, Environment Canterbury, Meridian Energy, Orion, and Solid Energy (Renewables Division).

The Christchurch Energy Database is available with data from January and has been developed for CAfE by Neo Leaf Global, a consultancy specialising in the energy and infrastructure sectors.

CAfE supports debate by providing accurate information on current energy usage in Christchurch.

The CAfE Christchurch Energy Database data is the first "real-time" energy data for any city in New Zealand and shows a significant reliance on fossil fuels. New Zealand use of non reneable energy is lower than most countries due to our high renewable component in electricity generation. The figures provide a road map for energy initiatives and changes to land transport, infrastructure and other planning.

CAfE is also the agency that is tasked with investigating options for enhancing Christchurch's energy mix, such as the district heating project proposed in the recently released draft Central City Plan.

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