New electric boiler aiding decarbonisation

Southern Institute of Technology (SIT) operations lead Daryl Haggerty(left), Invercargill MP Penny Simmonds and SIT Kaumatua Michael Skerrett officiated at the opening ceremony of SIT’s electric boiler system in July 2024.

A new report shows SIT has reduced its energy-related carbon emissions by nearly half (48%).

Mr Haggerty said the boilers were the main reason the reduction was achieved.

Their replacement was part of a wider sustainability plan for the Invercargill campus that also included things like installing heat pumps and double glazing.

Thermal storage had also meant the boilers could operate outside peak periods, significantly lowering network charges and electricity energy costs for the organisation.

The elimination of ash removal and fuel delivery by truck for the boilers’ operation further contributed to SIT’s decarbonisation goals, he said. — APL