About QEA
We're a locally-led team of experts & commuinty guides
We're a locally-led team of electrification experts, community guides, and technical specialists working to make Queenstown the world's first zero-carbon visitor destination.
Over the next 18 months, we're bringing together local installers, technology suppliers, and community leaders to provide independent advice, negotiate community-wide deals, and make clean energy accessible to everyone, from renters to homeowners to businesses.
Our Mission
Building the 2050 energy system, by 2030.
To accelerate Queenstown's electrification and modernisation of its energy system by 2030, creating a blueprint for how communities worldwide can achieve lower bills, lower emissions, and higher resilience through the rapid, fair adoption of electric technologies and renewable energy.
Our Vision
For the Queenstown region to become the world's most electrified destination.
The world's first fully electrified tourist destination, where visitors experience and are inspired by the future of a zero-carbon economy, and locals enjoy the cheapest energy, cleanest air, and resilient infrastructure.
Our supporters
The Queenstown Electrification Accelerator is made possible by the support of forward-thinking organisations committed to our community's sustainable future. Thank you to our supporters, who are transforming the lives of Queenstown and Central Otago households and businesses while building the blueprint for Aotearoa and the world's energy future.
Meet the team (so far!)
Dr Steve Batstone
Director at Whiteboard Energy | Advisor at Rewiring Aotearoa
Dr Steve Batstone is an expert in energy systems and operations research, with experience spanning academia, industry, and consultancy. His work shapes Aotearoa's energy landscape. Holding a PhD from the University of Canterbury, he has worked extensively in electricity markets, regulatory affairs, and technological innovation. He is the Founding Director of Whiteboard Energy (a platform for energy education), the creator of the documentary Powering NZ and is an advisor to Rewiring Aotearoa.
Josh Ellison
Research & Development Lead at Rewiring Aotearoa
Josh leads Research & Development at Rewiring Aotearoa, a non-profit think (and do) tank that is working to build an electrified future where every kiwi saves money on energy bills, reduces their carbon emissions and has the resilience to keep their lights on and homes warm. He has led their research efforts since day one and is a Queenstown local.
Jenny Sahng
Senior Data Scientist & Project Manager at Rewiring Aotearoa
Jenny combines data expertise with climate communication to drive emissions reduction in NZ at Rewiring Aotearoa. Previously a data scientist at Xero and founding team at kiwi tech startup Multitudes, she formerly co-founded Climate Club Aotearoa, making climate action accessible for everyday New Zealanders.
Lowri Swygart
Business Electrification Advisor at Ara Ake
Lowri is passionate about making lasting change in the built environment, with a background in carbon management for the built environment and Civil and Structural Engineering. Lowri has implemented decarbonisation strategies across New Zealand, Australia and the UK, setting transformative standards for carbon management in the built environment. Lowri has also collaborated with industry leading tool developers, revolutionising carbon management and driving innovation. Her expertise combines strategic leadership, technical know-how, and a passion for impactful climate action.
Mike Rewi
Community Engagement at Rewiring Aotearoa | Tumu Whakarae (CEO) at Mana Tāhuna Charitable Trust
Mike hails from Murihiku (Southland) and is an active Ngāi Tahu Iwi member. He advocates for better outcomes for Māori, Pasifika and low income communities, ensuring whānau voice is at the forefront of central and local governments policies. He is founder and is CEO of Mana Tāhuna Charitable Trust, runs iwi and community engagement at Rewiring Aotearoa, is a trustee on Shaping Our Futures Inc., and holds advisory roles within Waka Kotahi ensuring community voice is woven through government strategy.
Jay Salzke
Ecosystem Lead at Rewiring Aotearoa
Jay is an educator and community builder, passionate about climate action and electrification. As Ecosystem Lead for Rewiring Aotearoa, he is building a network of community groups accelerating localised electrification. Previously, as Project Manager for Auckland Climate Festival, Jay fostered partnerships with 285+ stakeholders, delivering workshops and resources to raise climate ambition. He is completing a Master of Climate Science and Policy, focusing on mitigation, adaptation and climate justice.