Get ready for the - New Zealand Electrical Conference 2025
Survey shows wider knowledge required to meet the needs of customers and keep up with technological advancements
Master Electricians New Zealand and EECA (Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority) are announcing a new partnership to empower New Zealanders to embrace efficient energy technologies.
This partnership, formalised with a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), aims to equip electricians with the skills and knowledge needed to meet growing customer demand for energy-efficient technologies across residential and commercial sectors.
The five-year partnership will be defined by strategic and operational collaboration, recognising the critical role the electrical industry plays in New Zealand’s transition to low-emissions renewable fuel sources. By aligning efforts, Master Electricians and EECA will support advancements in distributed flexibility, and the adoption of emerging technologies designed to improve energy efficiency at home and work.
The collaboration comes at a time when the electrical industry is facing rapid technological advancements and changing customer expectations. As New Zealand’s grid becomes increasingly distributed and ‘smart’ – capable of sending and receiving dynamic signals from electricity-powered devices and vehicles – electricians are being called upon to offer advice and expertise beyond traditional wiring and installations.
A survey conducted by TRA on behalf of EECA’s partnership with Master Electricians in September/October 2024 showed 78% of electricians and plumbers reported that customers are increasingly requesting installation of a wider range of appliances that require broader technical knowledge. However, only 10% of respondents felt their current skills were sufficient to meet these new demands. This highlights a growing skills gap and underscores the importance of ongoing training and professional development.
Most electricians and plumbers want to give advice and feel they’re a trusted advisor, but they want to be involved earlier in the process. In the survey, 81% thought jobs would often work out better if they were involved earlier in the planning and decisions with the customer.
Alexandra Vranyac-Wheeler, Chief Executive of Master Electricians, says: “Master Electricians is excited to collaborate with EECA to drive innovation and energy efficiency across the industry. This partnership underscores our commitment to providing members with the tools, resources, and support they need to adapt to an evolving energy landscape.”
EECA Chief Executive Marcos Pelenur says collaborating with New Zealand’s electricians will be a key channel for ensuring consumers feel well supported with information and skills that will enable them to make decisions that benefit their households and businesses.
“Electricians are the professionals responsible for installing the appliances and devices that improve their customers’ energy efficiency, saving them money, reducing impact on the grid and lowering emissions. They’re a valuable trusted messenger.”
Shared Goals for a Sustainable Future
The MoU reflects a shared vision of opportunity in the energy transition, with both parties committed to:
- Supporting residential and commercial users in adopting energy-efficient technologies including rooftop solar panels, electric vehicle charging, and smart home energy management systems (HEMS).
- Empowering the electrical workforce with skills and knowledge to lead in efficient energy solutions.
- Developing guidelines, training programs, workshops, events and case studies to promote best practices, upskill electricians and ensure they remain at the forefront of innovation.
Looking Ahead
The partnership will help position the electrical sector as a leader in energy efficiency and electrification. Over the next five years, Master Electricians and EECA will work together to ensure New Zealanders have access to the expertise and technologies needed to navigate the energy transition confidently.