Q+A with Jack Tame Will fuel price blowouts push us toward electrification?
Mar 28, 2026
Mike Casey, CEO of Rewiring Aotearoa and cherry farmer who champions electrification and renewables. He discusses how farms beat diesel shocks with electric kit. He highlights rising interest in EVs and rooftop solar. He outlines how policy, grid capacity and financing shape the switch to cleaner, locally made energy.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Conservative Farmer Offered To Borrow Electric Tractor
- On his farm Mike Casey runs 21 electric machines and saw a conservative neighbour offer to borrow his electric tractor as diesel prices rose.
- This real-world example shows shifting attitudes even among sceptical rural users.
Use Policy To Bring Everyone Onto Electrification
- Promote policies and financing to bring lower-income households onto electrification to avoid a wealth divide.
- Casey suggests simple measures (fleet depreciation, novated leases, FBT removal) to expand second-hand EV access.
Narrative: New Zealand Made Energy As North Star
- Framing the narrative around 'New Zealand-made energy' ties prosperity, resilience and emissions reductions together.
- Casey argues increasing domestic electricity use will attract renewable investment and create a virtuous cycle.