28/06/2006
- Environment House, home of the government department
responsible for environmental issues, has been
rated the most energy efficient office building
in New Zealand.
An independent audit has shown
that its energy consumption is only 40 per cent
of the average energy use of similar buildings
in New Zealand. Environment House currently uses
113 kWh/m2 a year, compared to the New Zealand
average of 269 kWh/m2 a year for office buildings.
“It is good to see Government
‘walking the talk’ when it comes to sustainable
use of resources,” said Environment Minister David
Benson-Pope.
This lower consumption means
that the Ministry spends approximately $100,000
less per year on energy than the average building
of the same size.
Environment House was not designed
as a ‘green building’ but energy consumption has
been kept low through a careful selection of building
materials, roof insulation, sensor lights, smart
systems for appliances and air conditioning, and
a high awareness amongst staff.
“Government expects all central
government agencies to look into their energy
consumption as part of their commitment to the
Govt3 project – our flagship programme to promote
sustainable practices within the public sector,”
said Mr Benson-Pope.
“Little steps can go a long
way. Staff are to be commended for their energy
saving behaviour - turning off the lights when
they leave meeting rooms, turning off the computers
when they go home, and frequently using the stairs
rather than the lifts.”
Heather Staley, Chief Executive
of the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority
said a culture of energy management can significantly
reduce the energy use of a building.
“Reducing the energy use to
less than half that of a standard building will
save the Ministry for the Environment money on
its energy bills, and deliver significant environmental
benefits,” Ms Staley said.
Hon David Benson-Pope
