The initiative by the Christchurch City Council to provide social housing started in the early 1920s. Since then the number of units has steadily increased until today the council has more than 2650 units available to rent. This is the second largest portfolio of social housing in New Zealand. Of this housing portfolio, 2200 units are geared to the elderly and to disadvantaged persons.
Recognising that many older people living on a restricted income may cut back on heating and hot water to reduce costs, the Council initiated two housing projects with solar hot water heating:
The solar hot water panels should provide at least half of the hot water saving the home owners at least $400 a year.
This installation is both socially responsible and demonstrates that the installation of solar hot water heating is well worth while and should be considered by every home owner.
The central government’s latest initiatives offering financial assistance to install hot water solar panels will assist with the addition of panels to other housing complexes.
The benefits of the project
- A reduction in energy costs to the tenants of Council -owned residential units, resulting in an increase in disposable income.
- A demonstration to the public that solar hot water heating works and is economically viable.
Things to consider for your business or home
- Do I use hot water in my home and would the installation of solar hot water heating reduce my electricity bills?
- Do I use hot water in my business and would the installation of solar hot water heating reduce my electricity bills?
- Do I know an elderly person who may also benefit from the use of this technology?
