The Dunedin Energy Study 2015-2016

Abstract

The Dunedin Energy Baseline Study is a joint research project between the Dunedin City Council (DCC) and the Centre for Sustainability at the University of Otago. The study takes stock of and analyses energy inputs to the city of Dunedin for the 2015 calendar year and 2016 financial year. This report builds on the Dunedin Energy Baseline Study which took stock of the year 2014.

This study is an action under the DCC’s Energy Plan 1.0, which recognises the need to encourage research that will enable monitoring of Dunedin's energy uses and inputs. This study will also help inform and assist with implementing other Energy Plan 1.0's actions, such as the Night City action (improve lighting efficiency) and Cosy Homes action (improving heating of homes).

The study was conducted between December 2016 and February 2017. The data collected was for inputs of consumer energy to Dunedin from 1 January 2015 to 30 June 2016. The findings provide an estimation of the total amount of each fuel type used within the city, with some indication of the main end uses of energy, and energy-related greenhouse gas emissions. Precise data was not available for some fuel types and where this is the case we explain the method of estimation and reason for the uncertainty. The project relied heavily on the willingness of many businesses and organisations to supply data. The project partners are extremely grateful to all participating individuals and organisations who dedicated a considerable amount of time to sourcing, compiling and providing relevant data.

Throughout the report, 2015CY refers to calendar year (1 January – 31 December 2015) and 2016FY refers to financial year (1 July 2015 – 30 June 2016).