The PPL Energy Matters initiative started in late 2006 when the idea was floated that Lyttelton could generate its own electricty as a further step towards sustainability. This progressed to discussions with local company Windflow Technology who informed PPL that previous wind surveys on Lyttelton Port Company land had shown the area at the foot of the hills to be unsuitable for a wind-turbine due to the nature of the wind. Locations on the top of the Port Hills were also ruled out due to planning restrictions.

Large-scale wind power is just one of very many ways to reduce our consumption of non-renewable energy. From these first discussions, the Warm Wall project was initiated.The aim of the Warm Wall project is to demonstrate how we can make better use of the power of the sun to heat our homes and reduce our need for fuel. The idea for the warm wall came from Roger Buck of Christchurch Architects Roger Buck and Associates.

From a number of candidates, Roger and his team selected the living space above the Harbour Lights Theatre as the most suitable for this technology demonstrator. The wall of interest is made of solid brick with no windows and a northerly aspect. Working with a local business, Roger will design and construct the warm wall free of charge. The installation of the warm wall will be by the Lyttelton community.

To determine what further energy projects will form part of the Energy Matters initiative, PPL members are in the process of visiting all the homes in Lyttelton and inviting the home-owners to complete an energy questionnaire. The purpose of the questionnaire is to gauge the interest and understanding of the community in matters such as climate change, renewable energy, energy efficiency retrofits, passive solar design, bio-fuel etc.

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