Home Energy Savings Forum on 30 July 2008

at the Rotorua Convention Centre

On the evening of Wednesday 30 July the Home Energy Savings Forum was held in the Rotorua Convention Centre. This forum hosted by the Rotorua Energy Champion was attended by over 100 delegates with 10 local companies exhibiting their specific products aimed at reducing household energy consumption.

It was great to see all of the energy savings devices on display throughout the foyer of the Convention Centre including an operating pellet fire providing a warm welcome on such a stormy evening. Other stands included the latest in heat pump technology, solar and gas hot water and heating products, efficient wood burners, heat recovery ventilation systems, home insulation, along the latest developments in lighting technology. Other displays provided information regarding the Rotorua air quality issues, the Curtain Bank and you could even have your electricity bill checked on the PowerSwitch website to see if you are purchasing at the best rate.

The proceedings were officially opened by Cr Robin Ford of Environment Bay of Plenty followed by a short introduction by Dr Margriet Theron of the Bright Economy Advisory Board. Kevin McGrath the Energy Champion briefly explained about the role of the Energy Champion and gave a breakdown of where all the energy is used in a typical home. Interesting and informative presentations were then given by industry experts covering the following topics:-
• Home insulation and Solar – Dave Dobbin (Energy options)
• Solid Fuel Heating – George Estcourt , (Scion)
• Gas Industry – Stephen Parker(Gas Association of New Zealand)
• Heat Pumps – Jock McIntyre.
• Lighting – Kevin Brooksbank.

Kevin McGrath made the closing statement after distributing a number of giveaways to lucky registered delegates.

This was truly a showcase of energy savings devices that not only save energy and money for the homeowner but also reduce carbon emissions.

You can download the presentations here

Energy Options Presentation (1.3MB)

Gas Association NZ Presentation (197KB)

Heat Pump Presentation (626KB)

Lighting Presentation  (118KB)

Solid Fuel Heating Presentation (2.0MB)

Check your Powerbill online at  >>http://www.consumer.org.nz/powerswitch/

 The Energy Champion role is an initiative of the BrightEconomy Advisory Board funded by Environment Bay of Plenty.