NZ companies set for Australian energy efficiency market

New Zealand companies set to seize opportunities in Australian energy efficiency market

8 October 2012: Six New Zealand companies specialising in energy efficient products and services will head across the Tasman this week as part of New Zealand Trade and Enterprise’s (NZTE) Path to Market programme, with the aim of fast-tracking their entry into the Australian market.

Increasing energy costs, combined with the introduction of the carbon tax this year and greater consumer and business awareness around sustainability, mean the requirement for energy efficient products and services in Australia is greater than ever, presenting a real opportunity for companies who can offer unique solutions.

Michelle Templer, NZTE Regional Director, Australia Pacific, says findings from the global 2012 Energy Efficiency Indicator survey for Australia prove the appetite for energy efficient products and services is certainly growing.

“The survey revealed that 52 percent of Australian respondents have invested in energy efficiency in the past year, while 79 percent cited energy management as either very or extremely important to their organisations. A further 46 percent of business executives said they plan to increase spending in energy efficiency and renewable energy over the next 12 months.”

The companies taking part in the Energy Efficient Products and Services themed Path to Market — Switch Lighting, Outpost Central, Triplics (ecoPortal), Senztek, Cosydome and Energy Light — will be well positioned to capitalise on this opportunity with the help of the Path to Market programme.

NZTE Customer Director Carole Wright says it is essential companies new to export or wanting to build on existing capabilities in Australia understand market requirements and have a sound market entry strategy, something the Path to Market programme prepares them for.

“The market opportunity for energy efficient products and services in Australia is growing, and the size, proximity and familiar business environment of the Australian market make it an ideal first market for most new exporters. However, companies need to be prepared,” she advises. “Through a combination of expertise from NZTE and the private sector, Path to Market will ensure these businesses develop a smart and robust export strategy for entry into the Australian market.”

While in Australia, companies will take part in the All-Energy Australia 2012 exhibition and conference, where a New Zealand-themed pavilion will be housed. They will also have the opportunity to hear from and network with members of the Clean Energy Council and Australian Cleantech Network. As part of Path to Market, companies also receive two days of onshore training, market information and advice, an assessment of their products and services by an expert panel and follow-up business coaching.

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About the companies

• Christchurch-based company Cosydome has designed a downlight cover for homes that stops heat escaping through the downlights, improving thermal efficiency and reducing fire risk. The Cosy Dome has been named a finalist in the Innovation in Sustainability and Clean-tech category in this year’s New Zealand Innovators Awards.

• Energy Light specialises in energy efficient lighting and lighting controls. Specialist markets include warehousing and distribution, large format retail, office and commercial. The carboNZero certified company climbed to number three in the 2010 Deloitte Fast 50.

• Switch Lighting has manufactured LED lighting for over 13 years. The company sponsored all the lighting for Victoria University’s First Light House, which came third in the 2011 US Department of Energy Solar Decathlon competition.

• Outpost Central is a technology company that specialises in smart meter technology, environmental monitoring and web-based software enabling organisations to monitor their water and energy use and manage their environmental and resource-based activities. The company has already been the recipient of significant contracts in Australia.

• Triplics’ ecoPortal is an online environmental management system that makes it easy to gain and maintain environmental certification, reduce operational costs and engage organisations on the path to sustainability.

• Senztek is a technology company focused on smart energy management of hot water cylinders. It provides smart technology for solar thermal, PV and patented PV grid tie applications for heating hot water. The company also birthed the concept of Grid Friendly SmartCylinder management of hot water.

About NZTE

NZTE is New Zealand’s international business development agency. Our role is to help New Zealand businesses grow bigger, better, faster in international markets.

We offer strategic advice, access to networks and influencers, research and market intelligence, and targeted financial support to help businesses on their international journey, and work to promote and support the growth of New Zealand business overseas.

www.nzte.govt.nz

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