Forging a pathway towards transformation
Reducing energy-related CO2 emissions and limiting climate change is a global challenge, and a shared responsibility. The energy transition aims to see the global energy sector transform from fossil-based to zero carbon by the second half of this century. Achieving this goal will take urgent global action. And while the worldwide transition is underway, it’s just as important that local action is taken to reduce carbon emissions and mitigate the effects of climate change.
Renewable energy and energy efficiency measures can potentially achieve 90% of the required carbon reductions.
– IRENA
The actions we’re taking as a Trust
Operations
We’re aiming to offset more carbon than we release by 2023
Grants
We’re providing funding to support the community’s transition to lower environmental impact energy use
Investments
We’re proactively working with the companies we invest in to measure their emissions and support their sustainability initiatives
Transformation at a local level
It’s important that the transition to sustainable energy doesn’t leave anyone in our local communities behind – including those who can least afford the change. This means ensuring that the transition’s potential impacts and opportunities are fair and inclusive.
Helping local businesses transition
To help our local communities take ownership of their energy transition, Trust Horizon is offering eligible organisations loans starting at $100,000. These loans are to assist with the high upfront costs involved with transitioning, such as the switch to solar energy. Please get in touch for further details and eligibility criteria. We also have a solar RFP template available here to assist with obtaining quotes.
The Trust collaborates more broadly on this Kaupapa through its membership of the Community Energy Network and PNZ’s Climate Action forum.
Related Posts
St Joseph's School is already seeing the benefits of a new solar power system, made possible through a community financing initiative delivered by Trust Horizon in partnership with Community Finance. Find out more.
The Matatā and Ōpōtiki communities will now be even more resilient in the event of natural disasters, with two Trust Horizon grants providing upgrades for two critical pieces of emergency equipment. Read more.
Stage one of a comprehensive electrical upgrade is underway at Te Hokowhitu A Tū Ki Te Teko, thanks to a $9,797 grant from Trust Horizon. Find out more.
2026 is set to be a year of transformation for Tāneatua Rugby Football Club, with a facility-wide electrical upgrade starting soon – thanks to a $197,475 grant from Trust Horizon.
Trident High School’s playing fields will soon be in the spotlight, with the installation of eight brand new floodlights – made possible with the support of a $177,200 grant from Trust Horizon.
The final stage of Whakatāne Intermediate School’s extensive auditorium upgrade is now complete, with the installation of a state-of-the-art digital wall, made possible with a $66,449 grant from Trust Horizon.
Over the last year, Kawerau’s KEA Centre has seen its electricity bills more than halved – thanks in part to a new insulation and air conditioning system, made possible with a $176,626 grant from Trust Horizon.
Trust Horizon has joined the Tōtara Energy Limited Partnership (LP) syndicate to invest in New Zealand’s renewable energy generation. Learn more here.
The Motu Trails Charitable Trust maintenance team is now able to clear over 30km worth of track up to 40% faster, thanks to a new suite of electric tools made possible with a $4,782 grant from Trust Horizon. Learn more.
Whakatāne District Council and Trust Horizon have partnered to launch a new fund that supports innovative, local responses to climate change and youth development. Find out how you can apply.
Ōhope Beach Golf Links is stepping up its sustainability game with new electric grounds equipment—powered by a $90,650 grant from Trust Horizon. Greener greens, brighter future.
Hospice Eastern Bay of Plenty are grateful to receive a $57,800 grant from Trust Horizon, with a focus on enhancing the sustainability and efficiency of palliative care services. Find out more.
Trust Horizon advances its efforts across operations, grant-making, and investment strategies to promote an equitable, inclusive, and transformative energy transition. Read more.
Over 120 members of Kawerau Golf & Squash Club are now enjoying the facility’s brand new heating and lighting, made possible with the help of a $72,000 grant from Trust Horizon.
Whakatāne Kiwi Trust were the recent recipients of a $35,586 grant from Trust Horizon, to go towards equipment that will help grow the region’s population of North Island brown kiwi.
Three valued community facilities – including Whakatāne’s only day service for older adults – will be keeping warm this winter with a grant of $106,686 from Trust Horizon.
The spotlight is on Theatre Whakatāne, with a $59,199 grant from Trust Horizon to level-up the lighting at the non-profit’s Gateway Drive theatre and rehearsal space.
Patrons using the Whakatāne Lawn Tennis Club courts will soon have enhanced night-time playing conditions and lower power costs thanks to a $121,888 grant from Trust Horizon.
Transitioning to a sustainable energy and low emissions future is a key component for limiting climate change. That’s why Trust Horizon is continuing to take action across its operations, grant-making, and investment portfolio to support an equitable energy transition.
Marking an important step in the drive for more active and sustainable transport options, the Trust has supported Whakatāne District with a country first.
‘Locky Docks’ - secure bike racks with free charging stations for e-bikes, e-scooters and mobility scooters - will soon debut in Whakatāne.
Mental health and addictions service, Te Ika Whenua Counselling Services Trust, has recently undertaken an electrical upgrade project with the help of a Trust Horizon grant.
A new fund established by Trust Horizon providing lower-interest finance will help organisations in the Eastern Bay sustainably transition from high-carbon energy sources to renewables – lowering the barriers to transitioning to a low-carbon economy.
In 2020, Trust Horizon announced a shift in focus towards high impact investing to create lasting and measurable benefits in our local communities. Read about recent investments here.
Well-insulated homes are known to lead to better health outcomes, keeping homes warmer in winter and cooler in summer. They also lead to lower energy bills, using up to 30% less energy than un-insulated homes.
Trust Horizon has provided Trident level 2 Engineering students with a $6,000 grant to go towards the building of Electric Go Karts.
Trust Horizon has lent its support to retrofit home insulation across the Eastern Bay district for the 23rd year running, with a $400,000 grant helping to provide another 444 vulnerable local homes with fully or partially funded insulation.
Trust Horizon has approved a $250,000 grant to facilitate a new programme, designed to empower Eastern Bay whānau to improve their health and wellbeing through energy education and home repairs. The Trust’s support has enabled the project to secure a further $200,000 from MBIE’s Support for Energy Education in Communities fund, and a potential further $50,000 from Bay Trust.
The Horizon Energy Group Business Excellence Awards 2021 will celebrate sustainable businesses with the Trust Horizon Sustainability Award. Read more here:
72 vulnerable Eastern Bay residents will soon be living in warmer and drier homes, thanks to a $100,000 grant from Trust Horizon.
Explore the Trust’s other strategic outcomes
Community Pride | Work-ready Rangatahi | Employed Locals | Community Leadership
The Lions Te Urewera Education Centre has seen in excess of 100,000 visitors since it was established 56 years ago as an outdoor education facility to enable urban youth to experience life away from town centres.