Switching On the Future: Electrify Queenstown and the QEA Launched

These initiatives provide a foundation for the transformation of our local energy system, a central focus in the draft Climate & Biodiversity Plan 2025–2028. 

Electrify Queenstown 2025, held from May 26 to 28, featured a dynamic three-day program aimed at empowering businesses and households to embrace electrification and renewable energy.

The event commenced with a welcome address by Mayor Glyn Lewers at Skyline Queenstown, highlighting the Council's support for community-led climate action. 

Keynote speaker Dr Saul Griffith, an international expert in energy systems and community electrification, emphasized the global significance of local initiatives like Electrify Queenstown in driving effective climate solutions.

The Queenstown Electrification Accelerator (QEA), launched during the event, is a locally led initiative designed to assist homes and businesses in transitioning to electric appliances and vehicles. By providing independent advice, facilitating access to bulk-buy deals, and promoting smart electrification strategies, the QEA aims to lower energy bills, enhance resilience, and reduce emissions across the district. For more information on the QEA visit qea.nz. 

These initiatives feature within QLDC's draft Climate & Biodiversity Plan 2025–2028, which introduces 'Local Energy System' as a new outcome area. The plan emphasizes the transformation of the district's power supply to be more resilient, renewable, and responsive to community needs. By supporting projects like Electrify Queenstown and the QEA, QLDC demonstrates its role as an advocate, enabler, and facilitator in fostering a sustainable energy future.