Orion Energy Accelerator competition calls for big ideas

The Ministry of Awesome and Canterbury electricity lines company, Orion, today launched a
national competition calling for new ideas to reduce New Zealand’s carbon emissions.

The Orion Energy Accelerator offers two Start-up Grants worth a combined $25,000 for people
and start-up companies with ground-breaking energy innovations to be guided through a
programme to validate and commercialise their idea.

Orion General Manager, Customer and Stakeholder, Paul Deavoll said, “The energy sector has a
big role to play in addressing the climate crisis.

“It’s vital we explore how we can do things smarter and innovate faster.

“This country has a history of innovation in technology, and this is a call to action for our innovators to lend their thinking to solve the biggest issue threatening the future of the planet.

“We’re looking for leading-edge energy solutions that will help us move urgently towards a low-emission future.”

Marian Johnson of Ministry of Awesome said, “We’re delighted to work with Orion on this
programme, to tap into their broad energy sector knowledge and experience.

“The accelerator will be a game-changer for all participants as they’ll be surrounded with support
and guidance from some of the brightest minds in energy, technology and start-ups.

“Our goal is to ensure these teams step out of the programme having made progress with their
start-up and ready to commercialise their solutions.”

The Orion Energy Accelerator competition is open to individuals and start-up companies with
innovations across a range of energy sectors, including smart grids, e mobility, EV charging and
energy storage, and affordable energy solutions.

Applications are now open and close on 30 April 2021.

Eleven start-ups will be selected for the accelerator programme on 31 May, all will get the opportunity to pitch at a Demo Evening on 5 August. Applications are open now at www.orionaccelerator.nz