Co-Lab - Better Together

Participating Councils

Energy and Carbon Management Programme

Vision

Guiding councils towards a sustainable low-carbon future by introudcung innovative strategies and encouraging collaboration.

Goal

Facilitating the development, and communication of energy efficiency and renewable opportunities among participating councils.

Since its inception in 2017, our Co-Lab Energy and Carbon Management (ECM) programme has been focussed on the reduction of councils’ own emissions.

The global effort to combat climate change significantly shapes our lifestyles, both locally in our communities and within governing bodies.

Councils play dual roles in this:

  1. by reducing their own emissions; and
  2. by spearheading initiatives to inspire, aid, and organise emission reduction activities within their represented communities.


The majority of emissions from councils stem from wastewater treatment plants (methane and nitrous oxide), electricity usage, natural gas consumption, and fleet fuels. Due to this, prioritising energy efficiency and implementing thorough energy monitoring are crucial steps, offering cost-effective means to mitigate carbon emissions.

What do we do, and how can we help you?

While implementing an Energy and Carbon Management programme offers numerous benefits, councils may face several potential hurdles along the way, including:

  • Initial Investment Costs
  • Complexity of Implementation
  • Resistance to Change
  •  Lack of Resources
  • Regulatory and Policy Challenges
  • Technical Barriers
  • Measuring and Monitoring Progress
  • Community Engagement


Addressing these issues requires thorough planning, collaboration with stakeholders, and concerted efforts to overcome obstacles and ensure success.

Co-Lab’s Energy and Carbon Management Programme is designed to support councils in navigating these challenges.

By providing superior service and expertise, the programme helps councils overcome hurdles while reducing costs through lower rates and shared resources.

At its core, the programme features an energy reporting system that enables councils to track energy usage closely and implement targeted strategies to improve efficiency.

What are the benefits for you?

The Energy and Carbon Management programme offers a pathway towards a more sustainable, resilient, and prosperous future for councils and their communities. Implementing an ECM programme would yield numerous benefits for councils and their communities:

  • Environmental Sustainability: Reducing emissions combats climate change, protecting our environment.
  • Cost Savings: Energy efficiency and renewables cut costs for councils.
  • Health & Well-being: Lowering emissions improves air quality, promoting healthier living.
  • Job Creation & Growth: Investing in green initiatives stimulates local economies.
  • Resilience: Sustainable infrastructure helps communities withstand environmental challenges.
  • Leadership & Reputation: Climate action showcases council commitment to sustainability.
  • Community Engagement: Involving residents fosters community ownership and collaboration.

How do we deliver the programme?

Co-Lab enlists the expertise of two experienced contracted Energy Managers to spearhead the programme. With a collective experience of over fifty years in energy management, our Energy Managers are well-regarded among our Council staff.

Contact Us for more information

Kevin McGrath
Phone: 027 272 2325
Email: energy@colabsolutions.govt.nz

Martin Lynch
Phone: 021 501 637
Email: energy@colabsolutions.govt.nz

Download ECM Brochure