Energy saving installations for Meridian customers

9 July 2004

Free energy saving installations for Meridian Energy customers

Hundreds of Christchurch households are being offered free installation of energy saving solutions in a project funded by Meridian Energy and delivered by EnergySmart with help and advice from Community Energy Action (CEA).

“Following the popularity of this project last year, Meridian is funding the energy saving measures in another 500 homes this year in two areas identified by Community Energy Action Trust where cost may be a factor in whether to install energy efficiency measures,” says Alan Seay, Meridian Energy spokesman.

“We see this as a way that Meridian can provide practical support for hundreds of local households, which are Meridian Energy customers, and help them become more energy efficient and also control their energy costs.”

Between 7 and 21 July, teams made up of staff from EnergySmart and Community Energy Action Trust will be visiting the selected homes to install products including energy saving light bulbs and hot-water cylinder wraps. They will check doors for draughts and install draught-strips where required. Showers will be checked for excessive water use and hot-water cylinders set at the recommended temperature. The value of the package is worth up to $365.

Energy efficiency savings as a result of an installation could total up to $212 a year, in a typical home.

Last year, the project completed installations in around 1500 homes. One lady from Bromley commented that the installation was “absolutely fantastic, we are really rapt. I couldn't believe the lagging of the hot water pipes could make such a difference”.

The installation teams will also provide householders with information on how they can save even more power. Tips include turning off computers, televisions and videos at the wall, closing the curtains just before dark to keep the heat in, and having a shower instead of a bath.

ENDS

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