Counties Energy opens fifth annual Environmental and Sustainability Grant round

Counties Energy is once again putting funding behind local environmental action, opening applications for the fifth annual Counties Energy Environmental and Sustainability Grants. Applications are now officially open, offering local community groups, schools, and environmental advocates the opportunity to secure funding for projects that protect and enhance our local ecosystem.

Building on the success of previous years, the $10,000 grant pool is designed to empower local environmental and sustainability initiatives that drive meaningful change. Whether it’s launching a waste-reduction program, restoring a local waterway, or educating the community on biodiversity, these grants provide the necessary resources to turn sustainable visions into reality.

Funding is available across three categories, Environment, Education and Cultural, and supports projects that improve the environment through planting, pest and weed control, waste reduction and habitat restoration; boost environmental awareness through school programmes, community events and signage; and protect culturally significant sites while fostering understanding of environmental issues through initiatives like stream planting and community-led activities.

Counties Energy General Manager Safety, Culture and Sustainability, Tracey Kay, says reaching the fifth year of the programme reflects the strength of community-led sustainability across the region.

“Each year we see the passion, innovation and dedication of local groups working to make a difference in their communities. By supporting these projects, we are investing in a more resilient, sustainable future and encouraging the next generation to become guardians of our environment.”

Eligible community groups and education providers are encouraged to apply. Previous recipients, including Āwhitu Peninsula Landcare and Trees for Survival, have demonstrated how the grants can help deliver long-term environmental benefits for the region.

Applications close on Monday, 2 March 2026. Full eligibility criteria and the application form are available at https://countiesenergy.co.nz/about-us/environmental-grant-2026/