– : “BOP Energy Report: Key Findings Released”

Accident – Death – Obituary News : : 1. “SunLive BOP energy report”
2. “Bay of Plenty regional energy analysis”

The Energy Efficiency & Conservation Authority (EECA) has released its Bay of Plenty Regional Energy Transition Accelerator report, marking the end of phase one of the RETA programme. Developed in collaboration with Bay of Connections and other stakeholders, the report aims to reduce process heat emissions in the region. It details 67 emission reduction projects across 28 sites, focusing on optimizing processes, improving thermal efficiency, and transitioning to low-emission energy sources like biomass, geothermal, and electricity. The report highlights the abundance of biomass in the region and the potential for geothermal energy. Businesses are encouraged to explore these alternatives for decarbonization. Access the full report on the EECA website. Contact EECA at RETA@eeca.govt.nz for more information.

The Energy Efficiency & Conservation Authority Releases Bay of Plenty Energy Transition Accelerator Report

The Energy Efficiency & Conservation Authority (EECA) has recently unveiled its highly anticipated Bay of Plenty Regional Energy Transition Accelerator (RETA) report. This report marks the culmination of phase one of the RETA programme and was developed in collaboration with various organisations, including Bay of Connections.

Overview of the Report

The Bay of Plenty RETA aims to significantly reduce process heat emissions by assisting regional energy users and suppliers in various ways. These include optimizing processes to reduce heat demand, enhancing thermal efficiency through technologies like heat pumps, and transitioning from fossil fuels to more sustainable options such as biomass, geothermal, and electricity.

Key Findings

The report delves into 67 emission reduction projects across 28 different sites in the Bay of Plenty region. These sites collectively consume a substantial amount of process heat energy, primarily derived from fossil gas, resulting in significant CO2 emissions. The report explores multiple strategies for these sites to lower energy consumption and emissions while also investigating the feasibility of biomass, electricity, and geothermal as alternative fuel sources.

Biomass as a Viable Option

One notable finding of the report is the abundance of biomass resources in the Bay of Plenty region. These resources, including residues from roadside harvesting and processing, are deemed more than sufficient to meet the demands of local process heat users. The report also highlights the potential for inter-regional trade in biomass, further enhancing its viability as a sustainable energy source.

The Role of Electricity

The Bay of Plenty region boasts three electricity distribution businesses that are actively working to bolster the infrastructure needed to support increased demand. With more consumers considering electrification for transport and process heat, regional suppliers are investing in network upgrades to enhance resilience and capacity. The report indicates that transitioning to electricity for certain sites could be achieved with moderate system changes and at a relatively manageable cost.

Exploring Geothermal Energy

In a pioneering move, the Bay of Plenty RETA report considers geothermal energy as a potential alternative fuel source. The region’s rich geothermal resources have already been harnessed by various operations, with promising results. Pending further feasibility studies, geothermal energy could play a significant role in decarbonizing operations and businesses are encouraged to explore this sustainable option.

Recommendations and Accessibility

The Bay of Plenty RETA report provides valuable recommendations for operations seeking to advance their decarbonization efforts. The report is publicly available on the EECA website, offering a wealth of information and guidance for interested parties. For further inquiries or to access the report, individuals can contact EECA directly at RETA@eeca.govt.nz.

By shedding light on innovative energy solutions and promoting sustainable practices, the Bay of Plenty RETA report underscores the region’s commitment to a greener future. With a focus on collaboration and proactive measures, the report sets a positive trajectory towards a more energy-efficient and environmentally conscious Bay of Plenty.