Energy minister Megan Woods responsible for EECA

Energy and Resources minister Dr Megan Woods also has responsibility for the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority’s work.

That includes EECA’s EV information campaign and its low emission vehicles contestable fund.

Woods of Christchurch has been the Wigram MP since 2011. After this year’s election her portfolio responsibilities include the Greater Christchurch Regeneration, Energy and Resources, Research, Science and Innovation, and responsibility for the Earthquake Commission.

While in Opposition, Woods’ roles included climate change and Canterbury issues.

Before becoming an MP she worked as a Plant & Food Research business manager and has a PhD in New Zealand History from the University of Canterbury.

Both EECA and electricity retailers welcome the chance to work with Woods.

“The new Government has expressed a desire to drive better outcomes for New Zealanders, particularly with a strong focus on a 100% renewable generation target, and reducing energy hardship for those in need,” Electricity Retailers’ Association (ERANZ) chief executive Jenny Cameron says.

She says a key factor in upcoming discussions is a review of the low-fixed user charge that is “creating distortions to both emissions mitigation efforts and assistance those in most need”.

Cameron says New Zealand has 86% of its energy needs generated from wind, hydro, geothermal, and other renewable sources.

“There are great opportunities for the Government’s decarbonisation goals through the electrification of transport and industrial heat. Many ERANZ members are already implementing actions to promote and assist electric vehicle uptake.”

New technologies such as battery storage, solar panels, and home energy management apps are becoming more affordable and ERANZ looks forward to working with Woods as the sector prepares for the new energy future, Cameron says.