18. Energy Volume One EECA is the main body responsible for supporting, promoting and encouraging energy efficiency and conservation in New Zealand. It is appropriate that the Council supports the Authority, as energy saving behaviour reduces the possibility of energy demand exceeding the economically and physically available supply of energy. The Council also recognises that regardless of the efficient use of energy, there will still be growth in demand for energy in the long term as a result of economic growth. This is why provisions have been included in the MEP to guide the use of renewable energy resources. [RPS, D] Policy 18.2.1 – Promote and encourage the efficient use of energy, having particular regard to: (a) energy requirements of subdivision location and patterns and land use activities; (b) the orientation, design and operation of buildings; (c) transport modes and patterns; and (d) the proximity of subdivision and development to existing towns and small settlements. The main way in which the Council can promote energy efficiency is through its management of new subdivision and development. The form and layout of subdivisions and development and their proximity to existing towns and small settlements can all play a significant role in reducing the demand for energy. Appropriately orientated sections enable new homes and other buildings to be designed to take advantage of the sun, resulting in warmer, drier homes and buildings that are less expensive to heat. This has economic as well as health benefits for individuals and communities. Location is important as the greater the distance of new development from established service centres, the greater the consumption of fossil fuels and the costs of transportation. There is considerable potential to save energy through behavioural change and the adoption of energy efficient technologies and practices at domestic, commercial and industrial scales. However, due to a general lack of knowledge and complacency among energy consumers, this potential has not been realised, despite the fact that energy efficient practices would postpone or even avoid economic and environmental costs associated with the additional energy generation and transmission systems. There is a need, therefore to increase community awareness and commitment to the benefits of energy efficiency and conservation measures. Methods of implementation The methods listed below are to be implemented by the Council unless otherwise specified. [RPS, D] 18.M.1 Participation Participate as appropriate in central government initiatives in the formulation and implementation of the New Zealand Energy Strategy. This may include supporting the provision of information to landowners, resource users and the public to promote the conservation and efficient of use of energy. [RPS, D] 18.M.2 Liaison Liaise with and work in conjunction with central government, particularly the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority, to secure current information, direction and guidance about energy efficiency and conservation. 18 – 6