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EECA lists approved EV chargers

Based on efficiency, smartness.

EECA has published a list of approved EV smart chargers recommended for residential and commercial use. The EV chargers on the list meet the specifications developed to ensure chargers have connectivity, aren’t locked into proprietary systems, and will work with a demand flexible system in future. Smart chargers also enable faster and safer at-home charging (compared to a 3-pin plug) and help EV owners take advantage of cheaper off-peak electricity rates.

24 March 2024

 

 

C&D waste focus in Auckland plan

Resource recovery boosted.

Auckland’s Draft Waste Management and Minimisation Plan 2024–2030 has been released, and it includes a target around construction and demolition waste. Plans include promoting deconstruction rather than demolition, promoting construction products that have greater reuse/recycling opportunities, promoting and enforcing site practices to reduce waste escaping into the environment and advocating that the government introduce mandatory site waste management plans. (The government is already working on this.)

The draft document describes establishing two resource recovery parks by 2031 while supporting the existing resource recovery network. Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland aspires to be zero waste by 2040, built on a circular economy.

24 March 2024

 

 

Water meters identify big leaks

Millions saved on upgrade.

New Plymouth District Council has installed about 13,000 residential water meters out of 26,000 planned, and in the process has identified and helped stop leaks totalling 463 m³ a day – the equivalent of around 68 Olympic swimming pools a year.

Fixing the leaks has significantly reduced peak water demand, and a $4 million upgrade of the pump station and pipeline that was being considered has now been put off.

24 March 2024

 

 

Coastal climate change plan updated

Includes new sea rise data.

The Government has released updated coastal hazards and climate change guidance. The guidance should be considered in building planning and consenting and flood risk management. This guidance uses a 10-step decision cycle that allows for short-term and long-term planning, adaptive pathways and decision making for coastal areas affected by coastal hazards and climate change.

The new document updates guidance produced in 2017. The Ministry for the Environment says that broader guidance on practical steps to take as part of the adaptation process is expected to be published later in 2024.

24 March 2024