Energy into the Future

Energy is everywhere: it is so all pervading, touching virtually every aspect of our lives that it is frequently taken for granted. Energy is also connected to a whole range of issues including water use, climate change, mobility, transportation, land use and Canterbury’s degraded urban wintertime air quality.

Energy, and energy policy development, is considered to encompass:

• All primary energy resources – such as coal, oil (petrol, diesel), gas, wind, solar, marine, biomass, geothermal
• All secondary energy resources – such as electricity, heat, motor fuels
• All energy requirements – residential, commercial, transport, public utilities
• The design and performance of energy systems, infrastructure, networks
• Rules, regulations, plans that influence energy supply, demand and systems development

The prospect of doing without a reliable supply of energy for most of our day-to-day activities is unimaginable. Within Canterbury the use and transformation of energy powers our industry and agriculture and supports commerce, transport and amenities. It enables us to heat our homes, travel freely, conduct business, provide our food requirements, and communicate.

On the Energy web pages of Environment Canterbury’s (ECan) website you can find out about:

Practical – it is all about making warm, smart, clean choices

• Where to find valuable tips for building your home
• A Home Improvement cartoon featuring insulation, heating, appliances…
• Energy checklist and energy saving tips
• Links for Home Space Heating - where can I get help?
• Links for Home Water Heating - what are my options?
• Energy Auditors – check your home or business
• Your Business – energy use is part of every business
• Your Transport – travelling with energy use in mind

Policy– New Zealand’s Energy System 

• Energy in Context
• National Level
• Regional Level
• Community Level

Education – borrow the Warm Home Model !

Plans and Reports – background information and ECan publications

Links and more – Refers to sources on the internet and relevant articles