Operation Laser Kiwi: help us take New Zealand-made energy on the road
New Zealand farmers are renowned for their ability to produce things like lamb, beef and dairy, but there's a new product they're moving into: renewable electricity. A new report by energy transition charity Rewiring Aotearoa says the benefits to farmers of installing solar and battery systems include cheaper power, resilience to outages and being able to make money from selling electricity back to the grid. Maniatoto farmer Becks Smith said installing solar to power her irrigation systems is the logical next step for the farm business. "We're actually really good at producing off solar power, that's what we do with our grass every day," she told Newshub. Smith is planning to install solar to generate electricity on farm to run her irrigation pumps during summer, while in winter when the pump is turned off, she can still generate electricity and sell it back to the grid. She said it improves business and community resilience. "Farms have the opportunity to be local electricity hubs to supply into local networks. Should the infrastructure be damaged in a natural disaster, we have the ability to support our communities."
Read moreDownload the document hereRoger Robson-Williams owns 20% of New Zealand's electric tractor fleet. That sounds impressive, until you learn there are only five of them. But, like his fellow electric tractor enthusiast Mike Casey, he's on a mission to change that by providing a bit of inspiration and information.
Read moreDownloadYour power bill is set to keep rising, in part because of how electricity distribution businesses (EDBs, also known as lines companies) are run and regulated. EDB spending is expected to be one of the biggest factors in increasing bills in New Zealand’s electricity system over the coming years, as it has been in the last few years. The Ministry of Business, Innovation & Employment (MBIE) is now asking what should change. This is a consequential energy consultation and we are encouraging you to submit to ensure the voice of the community is heard. If Government gets this wrong, your bills will be higher for decades to come. If Government gets this right, your bills could be lower. Submissions are due 5pm Friday 30 September 2026.
Read moreDownloadNew Zealand has lots of renewable electricity, but still uses lots of expensive imported energy; commercial kitchens in the UK are are turning down the heat (and the toxins, and the costs, and hassle of cleaning gas hobs) by going electric; new research shows plenty of young'uns think petrol cars are akin to a landline; a solar-powered ambulance designed by Dutch students brings some 'medisun' to remote areas; 'Pic's Peanut Butter partners up with FTN Motion for a special electric motorbike; and a great website that helps us appreciate the abundance that's all around us (and the things that could be entirely normal soon).
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