New Zealand energy saving program exceeds targets

Program insulates 235,000 homes.

The Warm Up New Zealand: Heat Smart program said the accomplishment compares with the original goal set in 2009 to insulate 188,500 homes by 2013. The program’s goal is to help make Kiwi homes warmer, drier and healthier.

The government said the program has directly improved the living conditions of many thousands of New Zealanders and is a resounding success. It also said the benefits of better home insulation are now well known.

This Warm Up New Zealand: Heat Smart program will be followed-up by Warm Up New Zealand: Healthy Homes program. This new program offers free ceiling and under floor insulation for low-income households, particularly families with children and high health needs.

It is expected to insulate around 46,000 additional houses over the next three years. Warm Up New Zealand: Healthy Homes is being rolled out across the country by the Energy Efficiency Conservation Authority, with projects already announced in regions from Northland to Southland.