There has been plenty of discussion around the recent Budget that the Government says provides further support to ensure more Kiwi homes are warmer and energy efficient, with transport and business also getting a boost to reduce emissions.
It says low-income home owners can look forward to warmer homes thanks to Budget 2021 investment into the Warmer Kiwi Homes programme.
“Extending Warmer Kiwi Homes ensures more low-income home owners will benefit from an extra 47,700 insulation and heating retrofits,” Energy Minister Megan Woods says.
“Every year an estimated 28,000 children are hospitalised for potentially avoidable hospitalisations linked to cold, damp and mouldy houses.
“This move will improve health, reduce energy use, emissions and costs, and support jobs in the energy service sector. That’s a win for people’s health and pockets, as well as the planet.
“Insulating homes is a core part of this Government’s plan to address the climate emergency. Budget 2021 means we can do even more to help those who need it the most to reduce their energy bills and cut emissions,” Climate Change Minister James Shaw says.
The transport and business sectors are also being given more support to lower emissions, across a broader range of activities.
More businesses will be able to make the transition to low-emissions energy, with Government funding for the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority’s support services for business increasing to $8.1 million a year.
EECA helps businesses identify and implement lowest-cost carbon abatement projects, optimise energy use, and switch to low-emissions energy sources.
“A big part of decarbonising our economy means understanding what options there are to transition, developing plans to get there, and support for bringing on new technology,” Woods says.
“This all makes it easier for businesses to move towards clean and clever energy use.”
In addition to the emissions reduction initiatives announced by Woods, Shaw has also unveiled a suite of measures in Budget 2021 to help New Zealand on its path to carbon neutrality by 2050.
