100 local homeowners eligible for free insulation
Counties Energy will insulate 100 local homes for free this year, under a Warmer Kiwi Homes scheme.
In partnership with the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA), Counties Energy is looking for low-income homeowners to support with free insulation.
The insulation will be done by South Auckland company GreenSide Energy Solutions and includes ceiling and underfloor insulation, where appropriate.
It's the second time Counties Energy, Greenside Energy and the EECA have linked up. In 2020, they insulated 43 homes across Pukekohe, Waiuku, Tuakau, Port Waikato, Drury and southern Papakura - all for free.
Counties Energy Chief Executive Judy Nicholl said the partnership is about keeping families healthy, and reducing their energy bills.
"As your local lines company, tackling energy hardship in our region is extremely important to us, with this initiative just one of the ways we’re helping our local families stay warm and reduce their energy bills.
"If you know of a low-income owner occupier whose home was built before 2008 and needs insulation, please encourage them to apply for this wonderful initiative."
New Zealand homes are often colder than international indoor temperature standards - the World Health Organisation said houses ought to be 18 to 20 degrees Celsius.
"Cold, damp air affects respiratory health, promotes mould growth and supports the survival of viruses. It is particularly important to have a warm home to protect lung health and to prevent hospital admissions for asthma, bronchitis, pneumonia, cardiovascular disease and rheumatic fever," Nicholl said.
To find out more about the programme, click the Read More button below.
Poll: Is it rude to talk on the phone on a bus?
Buses can be a relaxing way to get home if you have a seat and enough space. However, it can be off-putting when someone is taking a phone call next to you.
Do you think it's inconsiderate for people to have lengthy phone calls on a bus? Vote in the poll, and add your comments below.
-
64.3% Yes
-
33.4% No
-
2.3% Other - I'll share below
Become an SPCA Foster Hero!
Kitten season has arrived, and over the next six months, over 8,000 cats and kittens will come into SPCA’s care. Please help us give these babies the best start in life and sign up to be a foster parent today! It's not just cats and kittens - we are also urgently seeking foster homes for dogs and small animals.
Fostering saves lives and helps these tiny babies grow into healthy, well-adjusted adults, ready for adoption. We cover all training and costs. All you need is time and love to spare!
Sign up today and save a life!
What's your favourite recipe for gooseberry?
Love gooseberries? Share your favourite way to enjoy them. We're looking for our readers' favourite family recipes for this delicious crop. Send yours to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the magazine, you will receive a free copy of our December 2024 issue.