Community Energy Projects

We’re helping customers be more energy efficient and save money on their electricity bill 

As the Waipā region’s electricity provider, we’re actively helping everyone in our community save power while staying warm.

Ecobulbs

We’ve partnered with Ecobulb who support communities throughout New Zealand through a range of energy-saving initiatives. These include energy-saving lightbulbs and in-home energy assessments to save electricity and lower customer costs.

In the last two years, we’ve distributed almost 100,000 energy-efficient lightbulbs across Waipā through community groups and events. Some whānau have received up to five lightbulbs for their homes, which will last around 30 years.

Each Ecobulb provides the same energy as a 100-watt conventional lightbulb but only uses nine watts. The estimated annual power saving for individual households is up to $112 a year. 

According to Ecobulb Managing Director Chris Mardon,​ about 31 million inefficient lightbulbs are in New Zealand homes. Switching to new-generation LED bulbs could save the country $500 million in electricity costs annually. 

Warmer Winter Programme 2024

Two community initiatives are underway this winter: Winter Warmer Packs and Energy Assessments.

Waipā Networks Winter Warmer Packs are back for 2024

Last year, with the incredible support of our local business sponsors, we were able to deliver winter essentials to 200 Waipā Networks customers. This year, we’re turning up the heat with a goal to reach over 300 people in our community!

Our Winter Warmer Packs for 2024 are designed to be puku warmers: slow cookers packed with ingredients to cook wholesome meals. With help from our sponsors, we’ve included vouchers to purchase fresh produce and meat, plus some feel-good treats.

There’s just one requirement: nominees must live in the Waipā Networks coverage area.

Packs are limited!
Complete your nomination HERE.

A special thanks to our sponsors:

Your generosity and support have helped to spread some much-needed warmth through the Waipā community.

Energy Assessments

Our Energy Assessment Programme is run in partnership with Ecobulb. It provides Waipā Networks customers with free personalised energy-saving actions that they can take to make their homes warmer and more energy efficient. The programme includes helping customers to find the lowest cost electricity retail plan and supplying Ecobulb LED lightbulbs and energy-efficient showerheads.

We have just completed our Energy Assessment Programme for this year, with 500 households receiving a free energy assessment, advice, and products to help them become more energy efficient.