6 | Z Energy T TKaren Phelps Energising NZ’s low-carbon future Since launching in 2011, Z has donated over $10m to local initiatives across New Zealand through its Good in the Hood programme. REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT When Z chose its name in 2011, it was far more than a simple branding exercise, it represented a vision to meet the energy needs of its customers as a modern energy provider, says CEO Lindis Jones. “Our success will be determined by how we deliver for our customers today, while transitioning with Kiwi households and businesses to a low-carbon future,” Lindis says. As one of Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest transport energy companies, Lindis says that Z is positioning itself for the energy transition. Its strategy demonstrates a nuanced approach to meeting current fuel needs, while simultaneously investing in technologies like EV-charging infrastructure as some customers look to move away from petrol or diesel vehicles. Z imports around 50% of New Zealand’s liquid fuel – more than three billion litres annually – but is simultaneously investing in EV charging, and at the end of 2024 had over 150 EV charging bays across select Z service station sites. The company’s ownership of Flick Electric and its growing network of EV charging stations reflect its commitment to providing alternative energy choices. With its growing EV charging network, it is making meaningful strides in supporting the country’s EV infrastructure. Lindis reports that Z has now reached a milestone of having EV chargers at one in four of its service stations. “We are building fast and reliable charging sites at select service stations in key areas of the State Highway network,” says Lindis. “These well-located sites will provide increased coverage alongside some of New Zealand’s major routes and offer customers on-site amenities and the ability to grab a coffee or bite to eat while they recharge. “While New Zealand needs more EV charging sites to help alleviate range anxiety and support an increase of EVs on the road, we also need to make sure these chargers and the sites are fit-for-purpose. We have fast or ultra-fast chargers, and are leveraging technology to offer a seamless digital experience through the Z App.” Z supports local communities and various biodiversity projects. Its Good in the Hood programme is an example. At each service station, four community groups are selected to receive a share of $4000, with customers voting using orange tokens to determine fund allocation. Since launching in 2011, Z has donated over $10 million to local initiatives across Aotearoa New Zealand. “We have service stations in most communities across New Zealand, so we want to be a good neighbour in the local community and one of the ways we do this is through the Good in the Hood programme,” Lindis says. It has also established a $1 million annual biodiversity fund focused on restoring indigenous ecosystems. One notable project is the Puhinui Regeneration Project, which aims to regenerate land, waters, and support local communities. By partnering with the Sustainable Business Network, Z is helping to create employment and training opportunities for rangatahi (youth) in environmental roles. Another innovative environmental initiative involves collaborating with Trees That Count to accelerate native forest regeneration. By implementing a ‘seed islands’ strategy, Z is supporting a cost-effective approach to reforestation, which harnesses natural ecosystem restoration processes. He says Z remains distinctly New Zealand in its purpose – powering better journeys, today and tomorrow – and will continue to balance safely and reliably delivering the affordable energy our customers and economy need, while supporting the transition to a low-carbon future for Aotearoa New Zealand. Z has now reached a milestone of having EV chargers at one in four of its service stations.
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