Community Energy Activator launches in Taranaki

Community groups across Taranaki are being invited to apply for a place in the 2025 Community Energy Activator, a unique 13-week programme supporting community-led energy projects to create a more resilient, low emissions future.

Delivered in partnership by Powerco, Ara Ake, Community Energy Network and Community Energy Taranaki group, the Activator offers hands-on support, expert mentoring, and the tools communities need to develop their own sustainable energy solutions.

Running from 15 September to 9 December2025, the Activator will see a group of passionate, local changemakers learn from technical experts and peers, while progressing real-world energy projects in their communities.

For Powerco, the Activator reflects a broader commitment to supporting innovation at the grassroots level and building long-term energy resilience across the regions it serves.

“We see real value in supporting community-led energy projects because they reflect the innovation and ambition already present in our communities. This programme is all about empowering communities to build their confidence and capability when managing their own energy projects,” says Stuart Dickson, General Manager Customer at Powerco.

No technical background is required to apply, just a good idea and a passion for learning more about community energy. Past participants in Canterbury worked on projects ranging from installing solar power to benefit youth centres and community housing, and exploring off-grid solutions, to donating excess renewable energy to those in need.

“Accelerating energy innovation to support energy resilience in New Zealand is a key focus for Ara Ake. In 2023, we published a step-by-step guide for developing viable community energy projects, and this was the foundation of the 2024 Community Energy Activator piloted in Canterbury which involved nine community groups. It’s great to be able to bring this initiative now to Taranaki,” says Jonathan Young, Head of Industry and Government Engagement, Ara Ake.

The pilot programme, guided by industry professionals, is founded on collaborative and peer-to-peer learning. The pilot will be a mix of online and in-person learning, including site visits to local community energy projects. The programme will run from between four to six hours per week, and site visits and sessions will be held outside of workhours.

Expressions of interest open today via the Ara Ake website. Community groups and organisations interested in community energy projects across the region are encouraged to apply.

Register your interest here for the programme.

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Published: 10 August 2025