Find Money in Weird Places - A new NZ Government initiative

Energy and Resources Minister Megan Woods highlighted the significance of implementing simple yet effective measures that can potentially save New Zealanders up to $500. Woods emphasized the importance of taking small steps that can accumulate into substantial savings. Recognizing the immediate need for energy-saving information among Kiwi families, the campaign aims to provide valuable guidance.

The 'Find Money in Weird Places' campaign is a collaborative effort between the Government agency Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority's (EECA) Warmer Kiwi Homes program, Consumer NZ, and with support from the Electricity Authority. The campaign focuses on five key tips that have the potential to yield significant savings on power bills. These tips include:

1. Checking if you are on the most suitable power plan for your household - use www.powercompare.co.nz

2. Switching off appliances at the wall when they are not in use.

3. Setting your heat pump to a maximum of 21 degrees.

4. Changing your washing machine settings to cold wash.

5. Limiting showers to five minutes.

To ensure widespread coverage, the campaign will be disseminated through various mediums such as television advertisements, social media platforms, print publications, bus stops, and malls throughout the winter season. Additionally, approximately 500,000 households receiving the Government's Winter Energy Payment will receive a brochure containing supplementary energy-saving tips. Moreover, a 16-page booklet containing comprehensive information on energy efficiency will be distributed in seven different languages.

In the Budget 2023 announcement, the Government revealed the expansion of the EECA's Warmer Kiwi Homes program. Over the next four years, the program aims to deliver 26,500 insulation and heating retrofits annually, including energy-efficient hot water heaters and LED lights. The expansion is backed by an allocation of $402.6 million, with $20 million dedicated to procuring around 5 million LEDs. Minister Megan Woods expressed confidence that this extended program will enable tens of thousands more New Zealanders to reduce their power bills while improving the thermal performance and heating of their homes, leading to overall better health.

The expanded Warmer Kiwi Homes program is expected to contribute to a reduction of approximately 35,400 tonnes of CO2e (carbon dioxide equivalent) emissions per year by 2026/27.

In addition to the campaign's outlined tips, another effective way to save on household bills is by comparing different power plans and providers. Platforms like NZ Compare can assist in evaluating and identifying the best rates and packages available. By comparing and switching to the most suitable power plan for your needs, you can potentially achieve further savings on your annual power bills.

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