From 1 September, community groups across Aotearoa will have the chance to apply for support from Meridian Energy’s new Community Decarbonisation Fund, an initiative designed to accelerate local action towards New Zealand’s net-zero carbon emissions target by 2050.

The fund will reinvest proceeds from Meridian’s Certified Renewable Energy product into projects that cut greenhouse gas emissions and create long-term community benefits.

To be eligible, projects must focus on electrification (such as replacing a diesel boiler with an electric system or transitioning to an electric vehicle), generating new renewable energy (like solar panels), or otherwise reducing emissions. Importantly, the funding is intended to help projects that either wouldn’t have gone ahead, or would be significantly delayed, without additional support.

“This fund is about empowering communities to take tangible steps towards decarbonisation,” Meridian Energy said in a statement. “We want to back projects that not only cut emissions but also leave a lasting legacy for communities across Aotearoa.”

Applications are open to community groups only. Schools, councils, and government entities are not eligible. Selection criteria will prioritise projects that:

• Reduce greenhouse gas emissions locally and nationally
• Deliver solutions with long-term social or environmental impact
• Demonstrate strong governance and effective use of funds
• Provide opportunities to showcase what the fund can achieve
• Leverage additional funding to expand impact

Examples of potential projects include replacing community vehicles with EVs, installing solar panels, or converting existing infrastructure from fossil fuels to electricity. Applicants will need to provide details such as quotes, technical specifications, usage estimates, and the emissions being displaced.

Meridian acknowledges that community groups often face barriers in prioritising sustainability but sees the fund as a practical way to make change happen sooner.

“We know that going electric or installing solar can feel like a big step for community organisations,” the company said. “Through this fund, we want to make those steps easier – and help communities lead the way in building a more sustainable future.”

Applications for the Community Decarbonisation Fund open 1 September 2025.

Register your interest here