EECA (Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority) has opened a new funding round under its Support for Energy Education in Communities (SEEC) programme, aimed at helping households experiencing energy hardship live in warmer, more energy-efficient homes with lower power bills. 

SEEC Round 6 will provide funding to experienced community, advocacy, and industry-based providers that deliver in-home energy advice and support services to households most in need. The programme focuses on trusted, community-based delivery that helps people take practical actions to improve comfort, wellbeing, and energy affordability. 

EECA’s Group Manager Delivery and Partnerships, Richard Briggs, says many households are facing complex and overlapping energy challenges. 

“Between 300,000 and 600,000 households, owners and renters, in New Zealand experience energy hardship. 

“SEEC helps reach people who may not be aware of, or able to access, the support services available to them. This includes personalised advice, practical support, and connections to other support services.”   

The new funding round reflects findings from a recent independent evaluation of the SEEC programme, which confirmed it delivers strong value for money and positive outcomes for households and communities. 

“The evaluation showed that SEEC delivers more than a dollar seventy in benefits for every dollar invested, and even more when looking solely at government investment. Round 6 builds on this by focusing funding on providers with strong delivery track records, trusted community groups, and established referral networks,” says Briggs. 

Successful providers will deliver in-home energy advice interventions alongside support services such as: 

  • Helping households understand and reduce their energy use 
  • Providing low-cost energy-efficient equipment 
  • Supporting referrals to programmes like Warmer Kiwi Homes and the Healthy Homes Initiative 
  • Assisting tenants and homeowners to improve the warmth and efficiency of their homes 

“EECA is particularly interested in proposals from providers operating in regions that have been historically underserved and those with strong connections to Māori, Pacific, and other vulnerable communities,” said Briggs.  

The funding opportunity is being offered through an open Request for Proposal (RFP) published on the Government Electronic Tenders Service (GETS). The RFP will be open until 9 April. and EECA will host online supplier briefing sessions to support prospective applicants. 

Community and advocacy organisations are encouraged to apply. 

“We recognise that applying for government funding can be challenging, particularly for smaller community groups. That’s why we’re providing clear guidance and briefing sessions to help organisations understand the process and what’s required,” says Briggs. 

Applications close: 5.00pm, Thursday 9 April 2026.  

More information, including how to apply, is available on GETS and on our website: 

Support for energy education in communities