Energy Efficiency & Conservation Authority

AI Solutions to support demand side energy efficiency

In this RFI the term Solutions refers to products, services or tools to improve energy efficiency or energy productivity that are enhanced or made possible by utilising artificial intelligence techniques.

The energy sector is rapidly transforming driven by technological advancements and deployment of renewable energy. Increasing use of AI is one factor helping to drive this change and EECA is seeking information from suppliers of solutions that incorporate artificial intelligence (Solutions) which may help New Zealand achieve its energy efficiency, energy affordability, energy resilience and distributed flexibility goals.

EECA is specifically interested in how Solutions can optimise electricity demand and consumption by revolutionising consumer-side energy efficiency and demand management. EECA is seeking current information on Solutions that support commercial and industrial electricity consumers (including consumers that may have on-site electricity generation, such as solar PV, and, or, energy storage) to improve their energy efficiency and energy productivity.

The information sought will help it assess the available Solutions that are relevant to energy efficiency and demand management, and to potentially accelerate the use of such innovative solutions by New Zealand businesses.

We are interested in Solutions that are more advanced than older rules-based AI tools (i.e. symbolic or notional AI). Specifically, we are seeking information on Solutions which encompass advanced machine learning, deep learning or other advanced AI techniques. These could include utilising models for Predictive AI, Generative AI, Computer vision, physical or embodied AI or Agentic AI. Our focus is on learning about Solutions that can revolutionise efficiency and demand management to deliver increased energy productivity, increased energy affordability and enhance reliability of supply.

The information collected through this RFI will support EECA to deliver up to date information on AI products and tools for energy efficiency to New Zealand businesses and potentially design any market intervention programmes to accelerate the uptake of such innovative solutions.

The RFI closes Thursday 30 April 2026.

More information can be found on EECA’s website - https://www.eeca.govt.nz/about/news-and-corporate/tenders-and-rfps/request-for-information-on-ai-tools-products-or-services/