Kiwis can alleviate energy hardship on new platform

Empower Energy has launched its platform that enables the donation of power bill credits to be distributed to families experiencing energy hardship, which may include some EV charging.

Empower Energy can now accept donations through its platform on its website. The charitable donations already received have gone directly to vulnerable families struggling with the cost of living, by paying a proportion of their power bill.

“We believe in the power of community and collective action,” says Empower Energy chief empowerment officer Michael Fitzgerald.

“With the launch of our platform, we empower everyday Kiwis to join us in the fight against energy hardship. Together, we can make a lasting difference in the lives of vulnerable families and create a brighter future for all.”

Many energy retailers are yet to fully embrace the concept of facilitating donations through customer power bills, says Empower Energy, adding that supported by Orion and foundational sponsors Ara Ake and MainPower it is determined to address this issue by enabling individuals to make a difference.

“We’ve been proud to support some of the initial development of Empower and I’d encourage others to jump onboard and consider being a platform partner,” says Orion Group chief executive Nigel Barbour.

Empower Energy has also experienced success in securing corporate donations of surplus solar credits.

“The donations we have received to date through corporates’ surplus solar serve as a testament to the growing recognition of the importance of addressing the pressing issue of energy hardship. We’re proud to demonstrate that the system works and that there are donors eager to support this cause,” says Fitzgerald.

In line with its mission to expand and enhance its impact, Empower Energy is actively seeking platform partnerships.

These collaborations will contribute to the continued development of the distribution platform, allowing it to become automated, self-sustaining and capable of assisting a larger number of vulnerable families and individuals.

Ara Ake chief executive Dr Cristiano Marantes is thrilled by the progress being made by Empower Energy and encourages the sector to engage and participate.

“As part of our transition to a low-emissions energy future, we need to ensure that no one gets left behind,” Marantes explains.

“Empower Energy’s donation platform puts vulnerable customers experiencing energy hardship at the forefront of this transition, and we’re proud to be supporting this mahi.”

Empower Energy has partnered with FinCap to receive support and guidance to identify recipients for the energy bill credits, and it has worked with several financial mentoring services to pilot the programme, with a view to expansion.

“Financial mentors have the trust of the recipient families,” says FinCap chief executive Ruth Smithers.

 “They understand their financial situations and can help them navigate their financial issues. They are experts are at the coal face of energy hardship, so they’re the best-suited people to identify those families needing power bill credits, and how much would be meaningful for their unique situations.”

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