Solar makes broadcasting history in NZ

Auckland, 15 October 2015 -  RadioLIVE will make national broadcasting history tomorrow afternoon when it produces a three-hour show powered on solar energy alone.

While some community radio stations (1) use solar energy, Duncan Garner’s drive show will be the first solar powered broadcast to be heard around New Zealand.

The off-grid broadcast from RadioLIVE’s temporary studio at Auckland’s Wynyard Quarter is being powered by a solar system designed by the nation’s leading solar energy services company, solarcity.

“We’re making history today. Solar uptake is taking off around the world because it’s a cleaner, cheaper form of electricity and it’s revolutionising the way we’re powering our lives,” says solarcity CEO Andrew Booth.

“In the last 18 months the number of Kiwis choosing to power their homes and businesses on solar energy has trebled (2). Our solarZero initiative has removed the upfront costs which were a barrier to going solar. Now it’s easy and affordable for Kiwis to get all the benefits from clean energy that solar delivers.”

Duncan Garner says he is happy to help build awareness around the future of sustainable energy by broadcasting his whole radio show with 100 percent renewable energy.

“I’m all for showing Kiwis how they can save money and help make a difference environmentally.”

Ends

For interview opportunities with Andrew Booth, founder and CEO of solarcity, or for more information please contact: Juno Scott-Kelly by email: juno.scott-kelly@eleven11.co.nz or ph. 0211241221 or Anneke Bodde, Mediaworks Radio Senior Publicist, 021 828 485

Notes To Editor:

RadioLIVE Drive will be broadcast from Wynyard Quarter on Friday, October 16,  from 3 to 6pm.

A live video stream will also be available on radiolive.co.nz.

1) Great Barrier Island http://www.aoteafm.org/ and Raglan http://www.tractorfm.com/

2) http://mediacom.nzpa.co.nz/ENA%20PowerTracker%20-%20June%202015.pdf?dl=MTc0