Source: New Zealand Government
“Past projects have expanded the public electric vehicle charging network and invested in New Zealand-leading, innovative technology, such as electric trucks. We’ve upskilled the industry; and organisations from small community groups to nationwide transport companies have shown there is a low-emissions vehicle solution for just about every need,” Megan Woods said.
Funding for the LETF will now be met through an even split of Crown funding and levy funding. Total funding for the programme will reach up to $25 million per year by 2023/24, with the Government increasing its contribution to up to $12.5 million per year by 2023/24 through Budget 2021.
Meanwhile, more businesses will be able to make the transition to low-emissions energy, with Government funding for the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority’s (EECA) 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. This all makes it easier for businesses to move toward clean and clever energy use,” Megan Woods said.
In addition to the emissions reduction initiatives announced by Megan Woods today, Climate Change Minister James Shaw has also unveiled a suite of measures in Budget 2021 to help New Zealand on its path to carbon neutrality by 2050.
Notes to editors:
Warmer Kiwi Homes – From 20th May 2021, grants will cover 80 percent of the cost of ceiling and underfloor insulation and/or an efficient heater for low-income homeowners.
Transport – Transport accounts for 48 percent of New Zealand’s energy-related greenhouse gas emissions, and process heat makes up 27 percent.
The LETF, run by the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA), will encourage innovation and investment to accelerate the uptake of low-emissions vehicles, through co‑funding for projects. The remainder will be met by grant recipients. The current programme offers up to $6.5 million a year of levy funding to projects through the Low Emission Vehicles Contestable Fund (LEVCF).
