- Hon Tama Potaka
- Hon Shane Jones
A grant of $1.11 million from the Regional Infrastructure Fund will support a Māori-led initiative to install solar power, battery storage and back-up generators in community facilities in the Far North, Regional Development Minister Shane Jones and Māori Development Minister Tama Potaka say.
Mr Jones says the investment will strengthen local energy resilience and help maintain essential services in some of Northland's remote communities when power is disrupted.
"This is what energy resilience looks like in practical terms - trusted local facilities supporting their communities when severe weather cuts power and closes roads."
"Tai Tokerau gets more than its fair share of severe weather, and our remote communities need the right equipment that can support them until help arrives.
"This investment will harness renewable energy for everyday use while helping keep the lights on, water flowing and communications open when conditions are at their worst."
The funding to deliver the programme will go to Tū Mai Rā Energy, an iwi-owned renewable energy company with experience installing solar systems for marae and remote communities.
Mr Potaka says marae are community anchors, particularly in remote areas.
"Marae play a critical role for whānau and the wider population when hardship or emergencies strike. Equipping them and other community facilities with renewable and back-up power will help them meet everyday energy needs and continue support when normal services are disrupted."
