The 'Electric Election': energy policies, side by side
Labour will make it easier for more Kiwis to go solar and save on their power bills through SolarSaver, a package that includes: Two new Government-backed, long-term, low-interest finance options / Kickstart subsidies of up to $3,000 for low- and middle-income households / Easy plug-in options for renters / A $30 million community battery fund / Help to find the best option through EECA / More support for secure, well-paid careers installing solar
"Labour’s SolarSaver will help more Kiwis cut the cost of their household bills by removing the upfront cost that prevents many families from accessing solar," Labour Leader Chris Hipkins said.
"Renewable energy is the cheapest form of electricity available, but too many households are locked out by the initial cost. SolarSaver creates a simple one-stop shop, provides affordable finance, helps renters access solar for the first time, and offers targeted grants for families who need extra support.
"There's something for everyone. Low- and middle-income households will be eligible for subsidies of up to $3,000. We'll change the rules so renters can use safe plug-in solar panels, saving an estimated $300 to $400 a year. And we'll establish a Community Battery Fund so whole neighbourhoods can share in the benefits of cheaper, cleaner energy," Chris Hipkins said.
"This package is designed to get cheaper electricity into more homes and help New Zealanders save money on their power bills,” Labour Energy and Resources spokesperson Megan Woods said.
"We'll introduce two new low-cost finance options because four out of five households currently cannot access a standard bank green loan.
"Lines companies will be able to offer low-cost loans where solar installations benefit the local network, while a new property-linked finance scheme will allow households to repay costs gradually through their rates bill.
"Renters deserve lower power bills too. We'll modernise the rules for plug-in balcony solar so renters can start saving, and we'll invest in community batteries to help neighbourhoods, marae, and community organisations reduce electricity costs.
"We'll also introduce grants of up to $3,000 for households that need the most help getting started.
"The solar rollout will create local jobs for electricians, installers, and roofers. Alongside our expanded Apprenticeship Boost scheme, Labour will support thousands of young tradies to build careers in a growing industry.
"While National is doubling down on expensive fossil fuels, Labour is focused on helping New Zealanders take control of their power bills through cheaper, cleaner energy," Megan Woods said.
'Twas the night before Chris-mas, and all through the house, all the voters were stirring, the pundits showing their nous … the election will soon be over, but the energy crisis won't, so we'll be there to pester whoever is in power about the need to run more of the economy on New Zealand-made energy; can Ethiopia's aggressive push for EVs work and how does New Zealand compare in terms of adoption rates?; a two-way charging trial from Genesis shows promise in Auckland, but there's still a way to go before it's mainstream; small electric vehicles are often overlooked when it comes to electrifying transport, but it's hard to miss this weird French one; a solar-powered cafe (and some electric coffee); and we endorse the political vandalism of Keith of All Trades.
Read moreDownloadPoliticians are being urged to adopt stronger electric vehicle incentives ahead of the election. Climate and energy advocacy group Rewiring Aotearoa is arguing that EVs are one of the most effective long-term solutions for rising transport and energy costs. They're promoting an EV Salary Boost proposal, which would allow workers to access EVs through pre-tax salary arrangements – similarly to already existing schemes in the UK and Australia. Policy and Government Relations Spokesperson Ngaio Neumegen told Kerre Woodham that even with the rising cost of power, it's still cheaper to run an EV than a car running on imported fuel.
A proposal that would let New Zealanders lease an electric car using their before-tax pay has not won a commitment from either National or Labour, with the 7 November election days away. Under the EV Salary Boost, put forward by Rewiring Aotearoa and Drive Electric, an employee would lease a new or used EV for three to five years. The payments would come out of their pay before tax, lowering the cost of running the car. The idea is based on Australia’s novated leasing system, though the groups say they are not proposing a direct copy.
Read moreDownload
