Objectives
EECA is inviting forward-looking New Zealand service providers to develop projects that will deliver heat more efficiently and demonstrate commercially available efficiency technology to the wider market.
Eligibility
- Service providers looking to work with industrial and commercial businesses in New Zealand to implement VHTHP technology.
- NZBN-registered private sector businesses.
- Businesses who demonstrate experience and capability in designing and delivering industrial heat pump projects.
- Applicants must provide a plan for identifying potential projects and businesses.
What kind of project is this for?
We are looking to support Very high temperature heat pump (VHTHP) projects across a range of projects sizes and business sectors. Projects must be delivered in New Zealand and:
- install a high temperature heat pump technology, which can also be a heat pump supplying steam or a mechanical vapour recompression (MVR) heat pump
- supply end uses requiring 85oC or higher, or steam at a pressure of 0.5 bar (absolute) or higher
- are expected to deliver a minimum 150% increase in energy efficiency (have a coefficient of performance COP of 1.5 or higher).
EECA will not provide co-investment for projects involving installation of on-site electricity generation, or co-generation.
Why we’re offering this
The Very high temperature heat pump (VHTHP) activator aims to support the market with new demonstration projects for efficient heat using VHTHP technologies including via case studies and information. The technology is advancing rapidly, is showing results from the first projects, and can offer a practical pathway for businesses to reduce energy use and operating costs.
As well as supporting service providers, applications are also open to businesses with specific VHTHP projects.
What the funding covers
Targeted co-funding is available for both the development and implementation of VHTHP projects.
Applicants can apply for up to $10 million of total EECA co-funding to support the development and delivery of eligible projects. Up to 20% of the funding can be used for up-front development costs, with the remainder available to co-fund up to 50% of a project’s implementation.
For more detailed information, including a breakdown of funding available, is provided in the RFP document available on the Government Electronic Tenders Service (GETS) website.
Application process
We welcome applicants to apply through the Government Electronic Tenders Service (GETS) through the link below.
For any queries contact us through GETS or via email at: applications@eeca.govt.nz
Download the RFP document here: VHTHP Activator RFP - for Service Providers [PDF 668 KB]
Online supplier briefing
EECA will hold an online briefing session for prospective applicants to learn more about this initiative. This is an opportunity for applicants to ask questions about the requirements of the tender to inform the development of their response.
You can register for the briefing below, and the recording will be made available afterwards.
| Date and time: | Tuesday, 31 March 2026, 11am |
| Registration link: | Register here(external link) |