EECA wins prestigious Vero Excellence in Business Support Award

The Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA) has beaten strong competition to be named as the best Government agency in the Vero Excellence in Business Support Award 2010, held in Auckland tonight.

The award was in recognition of the work that EECA Business does with organisations throughout the country to increase their energy efficiency and use of renewable energy.

Businesses account for 73% of New Zealand's total energy use, with annual business energy costs running to around $13.5 billion. EECA Business estimates $2 billion could be saved through better energy management and increasing the use of cost effective renewable energy.

Mike Underhill, EECA Chief Executive, is delighted with the award and believes it reflects the increasing interest in better business practices. "More and more businesses are waking up to the fact that good energy management improves their profitability and competitiveness, and strengthens their brand. And when our businesses are doing well, the whole country benefits.

"Businesses of all sizes, and with all budgets, have the opportunity to reduce their energy use and costs. It doesn't have to be hard, but often businesses don't know where to start. Our job is to help businesses work out a plan that will deliver results for them," Mr Underhill said.

EECA's experience shows that most businesses can shave at least 20% off their energy costs - sometimes far more - with smarter energy use.

ENDS

Background

EECA Business provides independent, authoritative advice to help New Zealand businesses boost productivity through energy efficiency, energy-saving technology and renewable energy.

EECA Business offers services, resources and funding including:

• Audits to understand current energy use and how to make the most cost-effective improvements
• Case studies from a range of businesses that have implemented energy management plans that showcases their stories and helps give other businesses a head start
• Funding towards the cost of an audit, energy saving technology, or energy project in a Crown organisation

For more information on becoming more energy efficient and using renewable energy in your business go to www.eecabusiness.govt.nz