Vector Lights for World Energy Day

Vector Lights on Auckland Harbour Bridge will celebrate World Energy Day with a dynamic light show charting the history of New Zealand’s energy use – and our ongoing progress towards a net zero carbon future by 2050.

Every year on October 22, World Energy Day is celebrated around the globe to raise awareness of energy challenges and promote sustainable access to energy for all nations and people.

In what will become an annual fixture on the Vector Lights calendar, tonight and every night this week the Vector Lights show will culminate in a barometer reading of New Zealand’s progress towards becoming a carbon-zero society.

Of the 15,000 submissions on the Government’s Zero Carbon Bill consultation, more than 90 per cent of New Zealanders said they wanted a target of net zero emissions by 2050 set in legislation today.

Yet the work needed to reach that goal may surprise people, says Vector Group Chief Executive Officer Simon Mackenzie.

“While 83 per cent of New Zealand’s electricity generation is renewable, just 11 per cent of our total energy supply is zero-carbon so there is still a long way to go to reach New Zealand’s target of 100 per cent zero-carbon by 2050.

“It is our hope that the annual Vector Lights for World Energy Day will encourage us all to take stock of our progress towards becoming a thriving post-carbon society, by visualising our progress every year,” he said.

Part of a ten-year smart energy partnership between Vector and Auckland Council, Vector Lights is a demonstration of new energy future possibilities, as well as an experience and a destination, giving Aucklanders a focal point for celebration and recognition.

Powered by a mix of leading technology, including solar and battery systems, Vector Lights enhances the iconic nature of Auckland Harbour Bridge in an exciting and creative way.

“Vector Lights continues to be an important and evolving cultural asset for Aucklanders to enjoy and delight in,” says Mackenzie.

“Beyond that, it’s demonstrating how new and emerging energy technologies can play a huge role in shaping the future of our industry to make electricity networks more efficient, reduce carbon emissions, and ensure our infrastructure can keep pace with rapid Auckland growth.”

Key details:

• Vector Lights marks World Energy Day by charting the history of energy in New Zealand and offering a glimpse at Aotearoa’s carbon-free energy future.
• Dates: Monday 22 October (Labour Day) – Sunday 28 October
• Timing: Approximately 8pm onwards

In a Vector Lights first, the World Energy Day show will be accompanied by an audio narration, which can be accessed via Vector’s website and Facebook page.

Information about Vector Lights, including show times, best viewing points around the city, and extra details, is available at https://vector.co.nz/lights.

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