CBEC Draws Curtains on Cold Homes
The Community Business Environment Centre (CBEC) has been awarded Top Energy’s first-ever Energy Wellness Fund to address energy hardship in the Far North.
Launched in November 2024, the fund aims to alleviate energy-related challenges by offering a total of $70,000 to support non-profit organisations. This funding can be awarded in full or divided among multiple recipients to back grassroots initiatives that reduce barriers to energy hardship, improve living standards, and foster resilience in the community.
CBEC Chief Executive Cliff Colquhoun says the fund will be used to roll out a new thermal curtain programme.
“The Energy Wellness Fund will make a huge difference for some of the poorest households in our community.”
“Many homes in the Far North are poorly insulated and cold. Curtains might seem simple, but they’re a powerful tool to keep warmth inside and improve people’s health. This funding means we can get started immediately.”
CBEC has secured below wholesale price on end of line high quality curtains from a national curtain supply company.
The programme will provide reduced-cost curtains and fully subsidised curtains to around 50 homes and prioritise those with children or health issues. It expands on existing partnerships with local health providers and community groups.
The thermal curtain programme will launch in early 2025 and run for 12 months. It will aim to deliver tangible improvements in living conditions, health, and energy efficiency for those in need. Referrals are coming from health providers and community networks. Feedback will be gathered to measure its impact on health and energy savings.
Top Energy Chief Executive Russell Shaw says the fund reflects the company’s commitment to supporting local well-being in the Far North, where many households experience energy hardship.
“Cost and access barriers result in cold homes that can negatively impact whānau health. CBEC’s application stood out for the practicality of the thermal curtain programme that it would have wide impact, and that it is tailored to the needs of our community.
“We’re proud to help kickstart this programme and look forward to seeing the benefits it brings to families in the Far North,” says Mr. Shaw.
Top Energy’s Energy Wellness Fund supports grassroots projects like CBEC’s that tackle energy hardship and promote sustainable living. To learn more about the annual Energy Wellness Fund, visit www.topenergy.co.nz.
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About the Community Business Environment Centre (CBEC)
CBEC is a community-focused organisation based in Northland that operates various social enterprises and programs targeting environmental sustainability, waste management, and community development. Its mission is to create opportunities for meaningful employment while promoting environmental stewardship and community resilience.
In 2023 CBEC’s EcoSolutions’ Community Compost Connection Programme won the Te Tohu Matua – Supreme Award and Environmental action in the community award at the Northland Regional Council’s 2023 Whakamānawa ā Taiao – Environmental Awards.
For more information contact CBEC at ecosolutions@cbec.co.nz.
