7 August 2002

EnergyWise Companies save an extra $10.8 million pa

A group of New Zealand companies saved an extra $10.8 million off their bottom line in the 2000/2001 financial year.

Heather Staley, Chief Executive of the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA), has applauded the members of the EnergyWise Companies programme who have attained these savings.

"Many medium-sized manufacturers and commercial businesses could cut their energy use by 20 to 30 percent, and large manufacturers by 10 to 20 percent, through cost-effective energy efficiency measures. EECA works in partnership with companies through the EnergyWise Companies programme to identify savings opportunities and to implement energy efficiency measures.

"Energy efficiency is smart business. It is delivering results to the bottom lines of companies across New Zealand. The savings are substantial for many companies. This year's savings of $10.8 million come on top of an average of $20.5 million per year in previous years."

Ms Staley said Carter Holt Harvey was the EnergyWise leader for 2000/01 saving an extra $3.4 million pa on energy costs while maintaining production levels. This huge saving was achieved by three shrewd actions: scheduling the energy load so there was less demand at peak times; increased use of biomass to generate energy on the Kinleith site; and better use of hot water through heat recovery.

"But it's not just big manufacturers who can make a difference. The National Bank saved $260,000 pa by improving lighting and air-conditioning at branches, giving branches annual energy use reports to increase awareness of energy consumption and mounting a 'switch-off' campaign.

"Being EnergyWise about your business is commonsense. Every dollar saved can go straight to profit. EECA's EnergyWise Companies programme aims to help New Zealand businesses achieve those savings," Ms Staley said.

The EnergyWise Companies programme has been running for six years and around 550 companies are current members.

ENDS