Community Resilience Programme
Installing solar energy systems into community buildings
We’re collaborating with Energy Efficiency & Conservation Authority (EECA), Wellington Region Emergency Management Office (WREMO) and community organisations to install solar energy systems (solar photo voltaic (PV) panels and batteries) into up to eight community buildings across our district by July 2026.
The programme aims to improve community resilience by providing an energy source when the electricity grid is down during an emergency or during other unplanned power outages.
Working with EECA and community groups, the following community buildings have been identified to receive solar energy systems based on a range of factors, including the needs of surrounding communities, their accessibility during emergencies and their capacity to support communities during emergency response and recovery, power outages and other disruptive events.
- Paraparaumu Memorial Hall
- Waikanae Community Centre
- Whakarongotai Marae
- Raukawa Marae
- Te Horo Hall
- Paraparaumu College Sports Hall,
- Raumati South School
- Paekākāriki School.
This work will be carried out by our contractor Star Delta – a local provider supporting the delivery of the programme.
During an electricity outage, these buildings will be able to provide access to essential power for the community. Depending on the site, this may include access to charging stations for phones and other essential devices, and a warm, dry place for people to gather and maybe a good hot cup of tea.
Outside of emergency situations, building owners and users will also benefit from the ongoing use of solar energy, helping to reduce their electricity costs as well as decreasing the building’s carbon footprint.
EECA and Council are co-funding the initiative. EECA is investing up to 75% of the programme costs, with Council funding the remaining 25%. Council will retain ownership of the solar energy systems and be responsible for carrying out the required maintenance to ensure the systems remain safe, reliable, and ready to support the community when needed.
These buildings are already recognised as important community facilities, with some also designated as Community Emergency Hubs. They all play a vital role in supporting the community during a significant emergency, such as an earthquake, severe weather event or tsunami.
Community Emergency Hubs
A Community Emergency Hub is a place where people can come together to help each other in a major emergency. The hub runs without immediate official assistance - it's a place where neighbours help each other.
During an emergency, a Community Emergency Hub will:
- provide a safe gathering place where people can support one another
- provide information so people know what is happening, and how to help each other and stay safe
- help communities solve local problems using the resources that a community has available.
Visit www.wremo.nz to find out more, including the location of your nearest community emergency hub.