Energy efficiency advice for new building 141,600 sq m

16 April 2013
Energy efficiency advice for new building 141,600 sq m of Christchurch

Christchurch Agency for Energy (CAfE) says their Energyfirst energy expert advice programme has now been involved with nearly 40 commercial buildings in Christchurch. The projects and buildings supported with expert energy efficiency design together account for 141,609 square metres of floor area.

The Energyfirst programme, run in partnership with EECA, provides expert energy efficiency advice for city buildings over 500sqm within Christchurch City, and allows for energy modelling grants for larger buildings.

CAfE CEO Merv Altments says the programme has provided funding for a range of projects, including several offices and retail buildings, the SportsNZ High Performance Sports Centre, Rangi Ruru Girls’ School, and Kidd’s Bakery. “This is what the people of Christchurch asked for with Share an Idea and we’re doing it. This 141,600 sq m of buildings will be warmer, more efficient and cheaper to light, heat and operate than pre-September 2010. We’re pleased to make a positive difference to the rebuild. There has been a lot of anticipation of a better and different Christchurch and Energyfirst is making this a reality.”

“There will be only one opportunity to rebuild the city and the time is now. Electricity and other energy will only get more expensive, and already energy efficiency pays for itself and makes a huge difference for tenants and future building owners,” said Altments.

Jeff Smit, of Demand Response, a consultant for Energyfirst says ”Christchurch can be better with more energy efficient buildings that use better design and simple energy efficient ideas. From our work with developers we know Energyfirst is a recognised part of the rebuild and that can only be a good thing.”

“We’re pretty excited by the commitment to energy from the clients we have, and new ones we’re getting on board. The energy modelling we can do can demonstrate huge savings. What is particularly strong is that in many circumstances, it may not add to the cost of the building, but if it does, these costs are typically paid for in a short time,” says Energyfirst Consultant Mike Baker of TM Consultants Ltd.

The Programme is promoted alongside Christchurch City Council ‘s Target Sustainability dealing with waste and water efficiency and EECA’s programmes to support business.

ENDS

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