Community energy projects

Community energy is emerging as a powerful way for local groups, such as neighbourhoods, iwi, businesses or community groups, to take charge of how energy is generated, stored and used. They add value by:

  • Reducing energy costs

  • Easing pressure on the electricity network

  • Building stronger, more resilient communities

  • Reducing emissions

See below for local case studies and find more information on developing a project at Community Energy Activator

COMMUNITY ENERGY ACTIVATOR PILOT

The Community Energy Activator pilot was a collaboration between Ara Ake, Community Energy Network and Orion. 

We worked with innovators, technical experts and grassroots organisations to impart knowledge as well as learn alongside communities to increase our collective knowledge of Community Energy Projects.

The pilot program ran in Christchurch over 13 weeks; September to November 2024, with a mix of in-person hui and site visits, and a weekly online session, creating a dynamic space for communities to come together, learn alongside each other and mentors/advisors from across the country.

More info - Community Energy Activator

Participants included:

COMMUNITY ENERGY ACTIVATOR WEBSITE