First day in the job for new EECA Chief Executive

9 May 2007

Mike Underhill took up his position as Chief Executive of the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA) today.

Mr Underhill, formerly Chief Executive of WEL Networks, has spent many years in the gas and electricity sector in New Zealand and overseas.

Mr Underhill said he was looking forward to the challenge. ‘These are exciting times for EECA. The government is serious about making the most of energy efficiency and renewable energy, and the people of New Zealand are ready to listen and act.

‘The beauty about energy efficiency is that every single New Zealander can do it and benefit from doing it. It saves us money, improves our health and quality of life, and is good for the country as a whole.

‘I believe this country has a huge, untapped potential for energy savings. I am delighted to be part of the team that are doing something about this,’ Mr Underhill said.

Mr Underhill has a Bachelor degree in engineering, a master's degree in economics, has completed the Advanced Management Program at Harvard and is a Fellow of Institute of Professional Engineers.

He is married to Teresa and has three daughters and three grandchildren.

EECA improves the energy choices of all New Zealanders in the home, on the road and at work.

Contact – Vicki Connor, Senior Communications Advisor, 04 495 8269, 027 222 2943.