Christchurch’s rebuild will be the first focus in a new Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA)-led programme designed to incentivise energy efficient commercial buildings.

EECA Chief Executive Mike Underhill says that if Christchurch’s commercial buildings are designed and built to be as energy efficient as possible, annual savings will be worth millions to the local economy.

Commercial buildings account for 9 percent of New Zealand’s energy use and 21 percent of electricity use. The electricity used in buildings costs New Zealand businesses around $1.25 billion every year. The ECCA estimates that, in time, the new programme could save companies around $280 million.

The EECA has invited design, construction and energy services experts to respond to a request for proposals on a new commercial buildings programme. It is also welcoming proposals for alternative programmes to help overcome the financial barriers for companies investing in more energy efficient buildings.

Programmes are still in development and feedback from all relevant stakeholders – particularly agencies involved in the Christchurch recovery effort - are being considered. EECA’s programmes will complement an energy design advice service planned by the Christchurch Agency for Energy.

The RFP closes on Friday 18 November, and a final programme for commercial building owners should be in place in December. More information here.