Video: Ideas wanted to reduce carbon emissions

A national competition calling for new ideas to reduce New Zealand’s carbon emissions has been launched by Canterbury electricity lines company Orion and Christchurch-based “starting point for entrepreneurs” the Ministry of Awesome.

The Orion Energy Accelerator offers two grants worth a combined $25,000 for people and start-up companies with ground-breaking energy innovations to be guided through a programme to validate and commercialise their idea.

“The energy sector has a big role to play in addressing the climate crisis,” Orion general manager Paul Deavoll says.

“It’s vital we explore how we can do things smarter and innovate faster.

“We’re looking for leading-edge energy solutions that will help us move urgently towards a low-emission future.”

Ministry of Awesome’s Marian Johnson says the accelerator will be a game-changer for all participants as they’ll be surrounded with support and guidance from some of the brightest minds in energy, technology and start-ups.

“Our goal is to ensure these teams step out of the programme having made progress with their start-up and ready to commercialise their solutions.”

The Orion Energy Accelerator competition is open to individuals and start-up companies with innovations across a range of energy sectors, including smart grids, e-mobility, EV charging and energy storage, and affordable energy solutions.

Applications close April 30, 2021.

Eleven start-ups will be selected for the accelerator programme on May 31 and all will get the opportunity to present their case at a “Demo Evening” on August 5.

Visit www.orionaccelerator.nz for applications and more information.