Greens put spotlight on energy wasters

By JOHN ARMSTRONG, political correspondent

Electricity squanderers beware - you could find your name up in lights, so to speak.

The Greens have launched a name-and-shame competition on their website for people to nominate the worst squanderers and the country's best power-savers.

Those dobbed in for wasting power will be in the running for a Cold Shower Award. They will receive a letter from the Greens asking if they have any legitimate reason they are burning so much power.

Super-savers will be recognised in a Bright Sparks category. They will go into a draw for a special trophy - a mounted low-wattage lightbulb.

"Have you noticed how, despite everyone being asked to save energy, some businesses seem completely unaware or unwilling to do their bit?" states the Greens' website.

"Shops with dozens of TVs on, offices bathed in light all night, machines running idle, heating set way above what is comfortable ... whatever you spot, let us know.

"We think that those who haven't lifted a finger need some encouragement, and those who have deserve a bouquet. So let us know who you have noticed, and if you can, send us a photo."

Greens co-leader and energy spokeswoman Jeanette Fitzsimons said it was a fun competition with a serious message.

"Despite soothing noises from the Energy Minister, we are still in a crisis and we are likely to remain in one till we change our culture of waste, drop our addiction to fossil fuels and invest in renewable sources of energy like solar and wind-power."

She said Greens at Parliament were making sure they lived up to their energy-saving culture.

"I'm not saying we are perfect, but we are pretty careful."