SEANZ Energy Awards showcase best of distributed energy technology

An off-grid solar and battery installation to support a remote endangered bird hatchery and a factory which replaced 415,000 litres of diesel with 3,608 solar panels are just some of the highlights of the Sustainable Electricity Association’s (SEANZ) annual awards for 2017.

SEANZ Chairman Brendan Winitana said that every year the bar gets higher as more innovative technology, initiatives and uniques market propositions come onto the market and demand for sustainable energy solutions and related technology grows.

“Every year it is extremely difficult to judge and this year was no different. The winners this year have pushed the boundaries and provided valuable solutions to their client's energy challenges, saving them money and enabling their energy independence” Mr Winitana said.

The award winners were announced at the industry dinner that was part of the SEANZ annual conference Generating Connections. This year’s event over three days included a new technology showcase and technical training day as well as guest speakers from across New Zealand and Australia debating the challenges and opportunities presented as more and more kiwi households and businesses embrace energy independence through solar pv, battery storage, electric vehicles, and the associated energy management technologies.

The full list of SEANZ 2017 Award winners is:

1. Best Solar PV and/or Storage Grid Connected Implementation:

Awarded to Sunergise for Coca-Cola Amatil Fiji.

An installation that covers over 40% of the clients energy use and offsets 415,000 litres of diesel. Video of the project is here: https://vimeo.com/238302855

Sunergise - Fiji

2. Best Solar PV and/or Storage Off-grid Implementation:

Awarded to Reid Technology for Port Vila Port redevelopment

For a unique system delivered to an exceptional standard to the clients specific needs

Reid Technology - Vanuatu

3. Best Solar PV Community-Based Project:

Independent Power for the Shore Plover Recovery Project, Cape Sanctuary, near Ocean Beach in Hawkes Bay.

A project initiated by the local community and with a broader societal benefit

Independent Power - Shore Plover Centre Hawkes Bay

4. Most Innovative New Service:

solarcity for solarzero

For a service that offers solarcity clients their solar and grid electricity all on one bill. Video of this service is here: https://youtu.be/A96c3X2tUYU

solarzero from solarcity

5. Most Innovative New Initiative:

Mercury Energy for their new Research and Development Centre

For taking the lead as an electricity retailer to develop new energy products and services

Mercury R&D Centre

6. Best Small Business:

Awarded to Solar Electric Technology- Nelson

For outstanding service to their customers

Solar Electric Technology - Aquacare

Solar Electric Technology - Retirement Village

7. Industry Person of the Year:

Awarded to Andrew Booth of solarcity

For his forward-thinking and innovation which pushes the industry boundaries as well as his commitment, above and beyond his business, to the interests of kiwis who want energy independence.

SEANZ Energy Award Winners Announced

1. Best Solar PV and/or Storage Grid Connected Implementation:

2. Best Solar PV and/or Storage Off-grid Implementation: