A proposed renewable energy trial programme, prepared by Meridian Energy for the Whakatāne District Council, will be subject to a ‘due diligence’ process to assess any financial and building structure implications. The outcomes will be reported back to the Council, together with implementation recommendations.
Meridian’s proposal was presented to the Council’s Policy Committee last week and follows the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the organisations earlier this year. Its intent is to advance the implementation of the Council’s climate change strategy, by reducing carbon emissions and engaging the community in renewable energy initiatives.
Committee Chairperson, Councillor Judy Turner, says Meridian’s proposal was well-received, but will require further consideration before any decisions on specific projects can be made. Key aspects include the possibility of installing solar photovoltaic systems to supplement the electricity supply to the Council Civic Centre, the Whakatāne Aquatic and Fitness Centre, and Te Kōputu a te whanga a Toi – the Whakatāne Library and Exhibition Centre. Also considered is a progressive conversion of the Council fleet, where appropriate, to electric vehicles; and a voluntary community energy tariff, which would fund solar energy installations for local community organisations.
The due diligence conclusions are expected to be reported back to the Council within the next two months.