Levin whānau could benefit from free EnergyMate power workshop

Come and see if you can save on power ....

Levin whānau will better understand how to reduce their electricity costs and live in warmer, healthier homes following a free EnergyMate power workshop on Thursday, April 1.

The workshop will be delivered by electricity retailers, lines companies, and Levin Budget Service on Thursday, April 1 from 10am at Te Whare Mahana Community Hub, Bristol St, Levin.

"Some whānau can struggle to pay their power bills or keep their home warm because of poorly insulated housing, high living costs, and inefficient heating appliances. We want all whānau to live in warm, dry homes with affordable energy costs," said Miranda Struthers, the Electricity Retailers' Association's accessible energy advocate.

"ERANZ is running workshops around the country as part of EnergyMate, a programme which also delivers free in-home energy coaching to support whānau at risk of energy hardship.

"At the hui whānau are helped with simple and cheap power saving tips, information to help them better understand their power bill and what drives their power use, as well as free LED light bulbs for instant power savings. Free energy-efficient appliances are also given away to help whānau keep warm and healthy," Struthers said.

"This EnergyMate hui is about helping whānau make the most of their electricity. Some can save hundreds of dollars a year just by changing their power plan. Simple steps like putting draught stoppers around windows and doors can make a difference to energy bills," Levin Budget Service co-ordinator Michelle Harrison said.

EnergyMate is possible through funding from retailers Contact, Genesis Energy, Nova, Mercury, Meridian, TrustPower, and Prime Energy, region-specific funding from lines companies Powerco, Top Energy, Wellington Electricity, Electra, and Unison, funding from the Energy Efficiency Conservation Authority (EECA), and support from Fincap.

Electra, the local lines company to the Horowhenua District, is teaming up with EnergyMate to help customers better understand their electricity needs and save money.

"The electricity sector is committed to working together to support families to make their homes warmer and healthier," Electra chief executive Neil Simmonds said. "We're proud to support EnergyMate and the work they do to provide practical tips for families facing energy hardship."

Struthers said the electricity sector is committed to working together to help those most in need. Energy hardship is driven by a wide range of issues and the industry is taking steps to ensure they're part of the solution.

Bring along a copy of your power bill. There will be free kai and prizes will be given away as well as light bulbs.