20 Meridian 'Gold Standard' Carbon Credits for sale - TradeMe.co.nz

What Colour are they ? kurfitt (2

) 10:21 am, Tue 4 Sep

Green - with a blue tinge 10:25 am, Tue 4 Sep

Hi. Am I bidding for 1 tonne or the total package? Cheers, Steve stephen_summer (1242

) 12:20 pm, Tue 4 Sep

Thanks Steve, you are bidding for the total package - so a bit of a bargain at the moment! 1:03 pm, Tue 4 Sep

If I buy a parcel of carbon credits, what will my money (and all the revenue generated) be used for? hmcleod (5

) 12:43 pm, Tue 4 Sep

Good question – the revenue obtained by Meridian from the sale of carbon credits was anticipated at the time of the decision to commit to the Te Apiti wind farm Project. This commitment would not have been made at that time in the absence of the prospect of receiving this revenue. So in effect, this revenue will be reimbursed against the capital expenditure used to build the Te Apiti wind farm. See ‘Emissions Trading’ at www.meridianenergy.co.nz 1:29 pm, Tue 4 Sep

Seller Comment: For those who are wanting more detail please see http://www.meridianenergy.co.nz/AboutUs/Emissions+trading.htm 2:27 pm, Tue 4 Sep

That was risky (relying on the sale of carbon-credits), considering how new and unproven the carbon trading industry is. According to The Guardian it has so far been a failure. The scheme has the fundamental flaw of being developed by corporate executives and politicians rather than by environmentalists or climate scientists. The carbon trading industry has thus far done very little for the environment and thousands of tonnes of credits are now worthless. (REF: The Guardian 16.06.07 ). hmcleod (5

) 3:19 pm, Tue 4 Sep

Thank you for your question. 3:27 pm, Tue 4 Sep

Wasn't Meridian Energy given privately owned forestry carbon credits in 2004 which they sold to a Swiss Company for $9 million to fund wind farm projects? Isn't this public sale of the resulting generated carbon credits an example of a SOE determined to rort as much financial advantage from New Zealanders for something it never owned in the first place? tynwald (416

) 4:08 pm, Tue 4 Sep

No, we were not given any privately owned forestry credits to sell. The Verified Emission Reduction Units (VERs) arise out of the Te Apiti wind farm project. The project was deemed by the Government to be additional to business as usual and would displace thermal generation. See above for answer on additionality and you may want to go to our website for more info on the projects. 4:39 pm, Tue 4 Sep

What exactly are theses used for? karen431 (84

) 6:16 pm, Tue 4 Sep

The carbon credits can be used to volutarily offset part or or all of your carbon footprint. You can measure this through the carboNZero calculator at www.carbonzero.co.nz. After you have offset your calculated emissions, you could hold these for next year or on-sell any excess. 4:32 pm, Wed 5 Sep

i am so lost, why would anyone buy this? what does the buyer get out of this? starla_247 (30

) 6:16 pm, Tue 4 Sep

Purchasing carbon credits is one of the ways you can be part of the solution to climate change. Also, see the answer to the question above. 4:34 pm, Wed 5 Sep

I see these are not NEW like the other ones you are selling would these be more or less valuable if secondhand. imcare (396

) 6:16 pm, Tue 4 Sep

Oops! Forgot to tick the brand new box. 4:34 pm, Wed 5 Sep

my carbon trade domains for sale make a great combo for the successful bidder on this auction. russ6 (741

) 6:16 pm, Tue 4 Sep

Good on you! 4:34 pm, Wed 5 Sep

But the Govt has given these credits to you, an SOE, having stollen same from foresters like me! You are trading something that is not rightly yours. This stinks. andy20020 (225

) 6:17 pm, Tue 4 Sep

We understand foresters have some concerns. These VERs represent emissions reductions from the electricity sector and are the result of renewable energy projects being brought forward. The forestry issue around Kyoto carbon credits is quite separate. 4:36 pm, Wed 5 Sep

Hi Do you accept Monopoly Money as payment. Thats what they are worth in Europe. Regards Peter pbickle (65

) 6:24 pm, Tue 4 Sep

New Zealand dollars are fine. We beg to differ. 4:36 pm, Wed 5 Sep

This is fun Meridan I have increased the Auction over tripple than prior to the news item at least if I do win I WILL PAY FOR THEM not like Helens Car Buyer Cheers. kjh2 (288

) 6:27 pm, Tue 4 Sep

Yes we agree. We are humbled by the response. It's certainly proving to be an interesting exercise! 4:37 pm, Wed 5 Sep

A précis from Meridian's 2006 annual report: The revenue from the sale of carbon credits awarded to us by the Government was a key factor in Meridian Energy’s commitment to build a wind farm. In 2005 we sold these credits worth more than $9 million to a Swiss-based foundation. Do you still claim not to have funded wind farm development with credits that were legitimately owned by New Zealand forestry investors? tynwald (416

) 6:27 pm, Tue 4 Sep

We disagree. 4:37 pm, Wed 5 Sep

My whole family has studied this and we have no idea what this actually is. can u give us a simple explanation for a simple person? brewzer (339

) 6:35 pm, Tue 4 Sep

Yes - it's hard but we'll have a crack. Previously there was no way of pricing the cost of the impact of carbon emissions on the environment. The sale of carbon credits encourages the development of projects that reduce emissions (like Te Apiti) 4:39 pm, Wed 5 Sep

It's almost like buying a teddy bear that's a figment of one's imagination. There really is nothing in it for the individual householder is there. Don't reply if it is all too difficult - gereeves (266

) 6:38 pm, Tue 4 Sep

Teddy bears are enduring creatures of comfort - we hope carbon credits will be too! 4:40 pm, Wed 5 Sep

Why would people want to subscribe to a concept the is designed to deceive them. You have already been given the information dealing with Zero-point energy yet to continue to be the lap dog of the New Zealand Government. All the Proof of the cover-up is on the web site http://www.themeasuringsystemofthegods.com/index_files/Page554.htm and http://www.themeasuringsystemofthegods.com/index_files/Page2861.htm Please take the time to read all of the information, It is a real eye opener. organ_donor (21

) 6:42 pm, Tue 4 Sep

Judging by the response, people do want to subscribe to this concept and be part of the solution to climate change, rather than the problem. 4:41 pm, Wed 5 Sep

HI I DO NOT KNOW ANY THINGING ABOUT CARBON CREDITS IFF I INVEST X $ WOT IS THE RETURN ON MY INVESTMENT lizzyfolly (100

) 6:57 pm, Tue 4 Sep

If you buy as an investor(rather than to offset) it is unclear what you'll get, as this is an emerging market. 4:42 pm, Wed 5 Sep

Hi. You are a new trader with no previous selling history - how can I trust you? My only option was to Google your name and you seem to have a very dubious past. Care to comment? scottcrowley (57

) 7:19 pm, Tue 4 Sep

Yes, we are a new trader, but every journey begins with a small step - in this instance a small listing. See www.meridianenergy.co.nz for more information about us. The registration with Trade Me required an individual email address - and Nikki is our new star! 4:43 pm, Wed 5 Sep

Seller Comment: Thanks for your questions - we'll answer these in the morning. Cheers 7:21 pm, Tue 4 Sep

What gaurantee can you give that there are no fart gas methane components residual from local milking sheds. I'd hate to find that I buy this then discover 1 molecule of methane memory, similar to the hokey pokey theories of homeopathy. Then Aunty Helen turns around and bite me on the back side for memory emissions. Man this is risky. mini850 (42

) 7:22 pm, Tue 4 Sep

Ahhh - that's technical! As for the risk - these are Gold Standard issued VERs. 4:44 pm, Wed 5 Sep

I just saw the news why did your CEO say he didn't know what the credits were worth when you claim that the credits are needed to make your wind farm viable -does that mean an SOE spent tax payers money building something without understanding what your income would be???? craign69 (2

) 7:42 pm, Tue 4 Sep

An estimate of the value of carbon credits was factored into the decision to build the Te Apiti wind farm. What Keith was saying was that we wanted to run this auction in a transparent fashion - and in the spirit of Trade Me - offer this parcel at the $1 reserve. 4:45 pm, Wed 5 Sep

Are you going to make carbon credits available from project Westwind, because if so WE should be given them at a discount rate since WE are going to have this industrial site in OUR backyard.MAKARA RESIDENT russtheflyer (241

) 7:58 pm, Tue 4 Sep

No. We do not envisage there will be carbon credits available for Project West Wind. 4:49 pm, Wed 5 Sep

Hi! I am wondering how much carbon was used in manufacturing these structures, erecting them and how much will be used in the future servicing them. What is the size of your carbon foot print abd how long before you will be in credit? Cheers sell-mate (237

) 8:36 pm, Tue 4 Sep

OK - the amount of carbon estimated in the construction and manufacture of the wind farm wa in the order of 38,000 tonnes. The first three months of the wind farm operation was subracted from this amount. The carbon footprint of the 'workings and doings' of the site is relatively small - and is offset in literally a matter of minutes. These are also subtracted from the emissions reductions we recieve from Te Apiti. The amount of credits we get reflects the emissions reductions, minus emissions. 4:54 pm, Wed 5 Sep

It defies logic how large corporates and governments have been sucked into this Kyoto nonsense. Carbon Credits have nothing to do with a perceived environmental problem, they are a market for the financial world to speculate on. No different to Wheat, Oil, Carry Trades or so on, except Kyoto plays on peoples guilt and fears, and give nations such as China and India unfair trading advantage at the expense on Kiwi jobs. Your resource consents seem to be an excuse to dabble in such folly. valetta3 (30

) 8:37 pm, Tue 4 Sep

Thanks for your question. 4:55 pm, Wed 5 Sep

Great initiative! M-co are proposing to charge for registry changes after September and I can't find a fee for this on their site - for the future wouldn't it be more customer friendly to include retirement in the sale so the buyer would be effectively buying the offset rather than the credit. Garry glaw (737

) 7:54 am, Wed 5 Sep

We have passed the comment on to M-co. We had intially thought the best way to go was to do as you had suggested, however we realised this option constrained people's choice. We want people to have all options open to them. 4:58 pm, Wed 5 Sep

Can I trade these for tickets to the Warriors game? ab747 (145

) 8:51 am, Wed 5 Sep

Both are in excellent form at the moment. 4:59 pm, Wed 5 Sep

"The revenue obtained by Meridian from the sale of carbon credits was anticipated ... This commitment would not have been made.. in the absence of... this revenue. ' On a number of occasions I have been told by Meridian staff that Te Apiti was economic without subsidies. It they are right, then this sale is dubious. Can you produce figures from when the scheme was committed for construction that show that without green subsidies, the scheme was uneconomic - and therefore highly risky? buzzl (17

) 8:58 am, Wed 5 Sep

Thanks for your question - the answer to this is best found on the Te Apiti's Project Design Document at www.cdmgoldstandard.org. You will have to register to see it - but it is free. The Te Apiti project is recognised as additional by the New Zealand Government. 4:21 pm, Thu 6 Sep

I imagine you're happy with the way this auction is going. At $80/ton its defintitely a sellers market! roach76 (63

) 9:06 am, Wed 5 Sep

We are certainly delighted with the response - and the conversation it has generated. 4:11 pm, Thu 6 Sep

By my calculations 20 tonnes of credits from Landcare would cost $1,227. Am I right? dhaysom (22

) 12:58 pm, Wed 5 Sep

You could check with Landcare Research. 4:13 pm, Thu 6 Sep

By my calculations 20 tonnes of credits from Landcare would cost $675 ($33.75 per tonne). Am I right? dhaysom (22

) 1:03 pm, Wed 5 Sep

Again, you check with Landcare Research. 4:14 pm, Thu 6 Sep

I don't know much about carbon credit but according to this website http://savetheplanet.co.nz/carbon-wave-power-whatis.html "At the moment, the Carbon market is quoting one Credit as being worth US$10 – 30". Even if we take the top range of US30 the 20 credit that you are selling worth US20x30=US600 which is about NZD859. If this is the case the current bid of NZD1961 is a bit to high. May be tynwald has his point? Cheers pshoi (61

) 3:37 pm, Wed 5 Sep

Thanks - it’s great to see some price discovery occurring here. The different carbon credits available globally are selling for a wide range of prices. This is also the first ever New Zealand public auction of these type of carbon credits and people may have different motives for their purchase. 4:15 pm, Thu 6 Sep

Hi, the current bidders in this and your other 20 tonne carbon block auction are either nuts, or are willing to pay an exhorbitant amount for what might well be great publicity. At $100 a tonne you could buy 2.5 EU-ETS CER's (current sitting around $38 - $40 per tonnne for 2008 to 2012 settlement). I'm keen to know if these buyers follow through with the transaction once the auction concludes. bartimussimpson (77

) 4:50 pm, Wed 5 Sep

Again, thanks for contributing to the price discovery. 4:15 pm, Thu 6 Sep

I am thinking of selling some carbon anti credits so watch this space. I am also going to be advertising some of the emperors new clothes for any other person who may be persuadable. Would you like to go halves with me? kenneal67 (250

) 5:03 pm, Wed 5 Sep

Good luck on your auction! 4:17 pm, Thu 6 Sep

Thanks for your response. Re Electricity V's Forestry Carbon Credits. The electricity sector is producing more power and using more coal to do so than ever - the Govt Cc grant to you is smoke and mirrors from the Govt your SOE owner. I planted land to grow trees that are definitely returning carbon to the soil (as at 10-12 years I chop out 3 of four trees thin to waste etc etc) Yet this Govt say after 2008 I have to pay $14k a Ha to return my land to grazing It's a joke. andy20020 (225

) 5:13 pm, Wed 5 Sep

We know foresters have concerns. 4:22 pm, Thu 6 Sep

It is only through ignorance that your comments are born you do not have the capability to understand Zero-point energy as you are a victim or fraudulent science. Vedic Physics is the suppressed key to Zero-point energy and the industrial secret of Sony Microsoft and Boeing. http://www.themeasuringsystemofthegods.com/index.htm organ_donor (21

) 5:19 pm, Wed 5 Sep

Thanks 4:22 pm, Thu 6 Sep

There are a few sad comments about this auction BUT remember we all spend our money on different things and this is somewhat unique at the moment. This is all it is at the moment as in reality when the GOVT dump there ones on the market it is only then then the price will be finalized. kjh2 (288

) 5:25 pm, Wed 5 Sep

We concur. This exercise has already achieved many of our objectives – not least of which was to open the discussion around carbon trading and climate change. Thanks for participating. 4:23 pm, Thu 6 Sep

For all the idiots bidding for these. I have a bag of fresh air for sale (unused) $1 reserve. Go well with your carbon credits. Your trying to make money based on global warming and the kyoto protocol it's great the Labour party has given you the opportunity to rip people off.. p52683 (146

) 5:58 pm, Wed 5 Sep

Thanks for your comment. 4:23 pm, Thu 6 Sep

So bacicly anybody paying for these "credits" is paying for you to build more windfarms chryslerboy (102

) 6:11 pm, Wed 5 Sep

These carbon credits have helped bring forward construction of the Te Apiti wind farm in 2004 – rather than being used to build more wind farms in the future. Having a price on carbon will mean that future wind farms will be economic without carbon credits. 4:23 pm, Thu 6 Sep

There are a lot of grumpy fellas out there, and the odd "forrester" who doesn't seem to understand the system. I think it's great you're offering people the chance to offset their emissions in this way - it's a shame all these idiots think it's about the dollar value! What part of "voluntary payment" is so hard to understand?! Virgin Blue offers this for their flights, I was glad to have that opportunity... Thank you, and keep building those wind farms.. mpilott (21

) 6:29 pm, Wed 5 Sep

Cheers 4:24 pm, Thu 6 Sep

http://www.carbonplanet.com/home/shop_packages.php If I can buy Carbon Credits for $AU23 each i.e. I could buy these 20 credits retail at $NZ550 (and cheaper for wholesale), why would people be bidding in the thousands? whybish (55

) 6:50 pm, Wed 5 Sep

See previous answer around other motives – and again, thanks for helping with price discovery and contributing to the discussion. 4:24 pm, Thu 6 Sep

can you please explain wat the hell this is all about? damian29 (216

) 6:53 pm, Wed 5 Sep

Meridian entered this exercise with Trade Me, M-co and Landcare Research to do four things: help with price discovery; see what interest there might be in providing smaller parcels of retail-type carbon credits; use this process to gauge the level of awareness and understanding; and get people talking about their carbon footprint, carbon trading – and what it all might mean for the future. 4:25 pm, Thu 6 Sep

These "voluntary" carbon credits are a load of worthless rubbish. I do not believe that any serious bidder would pay you anything for this nebulous nonsense. Have your pals been bidding up the prices? Kyoto is an international con. What have you to say to that? Now, if you'll excuse me, I have to go and burn sme old tyres in my back garden. How much will you pay me not to do this? bill1958 (91

) 7:13 pm, Wed 5 Sep

Thanks for your comment. 4:25 pm, Thu 6 Sep

There is a lot of questions you're not answering. Probably all the ones that don't go along with your theory! YOU CAN"T CHANGE THE CLIMATE.... ONLY GOD CAN DO THAT! It seems there are a lot of people out there who are scared of where they might end up if they died tonight. They want to protect the world for their decendants... Fools! Open your eyes and face your maker. He knows what your hearts are REALLY like!!!!! austindevon (1053

) 8:08 pm, Wed 5 Sep

We are actually intending to respond to all questions – although it might get a bit difficult towards the close of auction! 4:26 pm, Thu 6 Sep

What is the considered market value. ? Do you do terms to pay. ? etimret (61

) 8:09 pm, Wed 5 Sep

There have already been some comments about price – so have a look above. The successful purchaser will be sent copies of our VER contract as stated on the listing. 4:27 pm, Thu 6 Sep

I am a farmer, apparently my animals belch methane, that concerns Jeanette Fitzsimmons greatly. If I feed my sheep nice green grass and one Carbon Credit each day, will they stop farting? valetta3 (30

) 8:14 pm, Wed 5 Sep

Don’t hold your breath! 4:27 pm, Thu 6 Sep

Why would anyone want to buy something that makes up less than a half of one percent of our atmosphere.Sounds like a big rip-off to me.I would suggest any prospective buyers to check out "The Great Global Warming Swindle" which was recently screened by BBC TV.It runs for over an hour but if you seriously consider a purchase,for the money involved?You can access it through Google. quartz4 (79

) 8:28 pm, Wed 5 Sep

Thanks for your contribution. 4:27 pm, Thu 6 Sep

will these off set my farts sufferings (21

) 8:34 pm, Wed 5 Sep

You can use these voluntary carbon credits to offset your emissions – what those emissions might be is entirely up to you. 4:28 pm, Thu 6 Sep

Hi, I understand the concept and am fully behind it. However, with regard to price, you state that "in the spirit of a free and liquid market we are putting the parcel up at a $1 Reserve to let the local market decide". Surely by offering these at auction you will discover the 'highest' price the market will pay? It is excellent the awareness that you are generating and good luck with the auction. What price a clear conscience? dalnab (30

) 8:59 pm, Wed 5 Sep

Thanks for your comment. 4:28 pm, Thu 6 Sep

As I understand it Credits make no difference to Co2 pollution , they simply allow industries to continue to pollute legally at a cheaper price than cleaning up their smokestacks ? Credits therefore are patently flawed as there is no reduction in the overall C02 levels , rather just transferring it around the world and worst still to Kyoto signatories only , Good idea if everyone signed up , but pollutants can still wind drift from Russia or China to neighbours ? Correct me if I am wrong . barcelona1 (811

) 9:04 pm, Wed 5 Sep

There are two issues here – the first is that under a ‘cap and trade’ emissions type system, those that emit would need to have permits that match their emissions – or purchase those permits – either from other emitters who have excess to sell, or from an open market. Those permits would be of a regulated nature. The ‘cap’ provides the mechanism that determines the level of ‘pollution’. See 'Sellers Comment' below for continuation of answer. 4:31 pm, Thu 6 Sep

Your experiment is interesting. Frankly I believe that humans have very little effect on climite change. No matter how hard anyone trys to have an effect on climite change it won't work because we have no control over the weather cycles. the planet warms up and cools down every 1000 years or so..... ever heard of the ice age? dudebuger (35

) 9:06 pm, Wed 5 Sep

Thanks for your comment. 4:34 pm, Thu 6 Sep

Hi. If I am successful in purchasing these carbon credits, can I un-cork my cow and allow the free flow of gases? I thank you and my cow thanks you in advance. scentsationsnz7 (384

) 9:24 pm, Wed 5 Sep

Should we be calling the SPCA? 4:35 pm, Thu 6 Sep

Do you think it is right that Meridian as a supposed good and fair corporate citizen and SOE should allow all of those bidding in this auction to pay $150 per credit when you sold credits for $10.50 to the Netherlands Govt and the Christchurch Council also sold 200,000 carbon credits for NZD $3m , an average of $15-00 each. You should immediately withdraw this auction as those bidding $3,000 are only going to get goods worth at the most $300 due to non disclosure barcelona1 (811

) 9:44 pm, Wed 5 Sep

Thanks for your comment – and useful information. As indicated by previous auction participants – there are many motives for bidding. 4:35 pm, Thu 6 Sep

These are VER's but not kyoto ERU's or AAU's. Kyoto credits being largely government initiated and recognised inter-government will most definately have a worth on the global carbon markets. Are VER's any use other than the paper they are written on? What markets, other than the resale market eg Trade Me, do you anticipate VER's will have. being able to advertise oneself as carbon neutral is an obvious one. Do you anticipate others. happymonique (17

) 9:52 pm, Wed 5 Sep

Great comment and question. In a paper published 17 July 2007, by Ricardo Bayon et al, titled “State of the Voluntary Carbon Market 2007” – showed between 2005 and 2006 the voluntary offset market grew 200%. In 2006, 23.7 million tons of CO2 equivalent were transacted in the voluntary carbon markets. 4:36 pm, Thu 6 Sep

How do these work?... If I buy these, then drive my turbo diesel hummer at 100km an hour in first gear between my house and the supermarket everyday for a year, do they somehow suck up the carbon i produce? dr.marv (70

) 9:59 pm, Wed 5 Sep

No – but I suspect they may last longer than your hummer! 4:36 pm, Thu 6 Sep

For 20 carbon credits, how can you charge >$150 per tonne, when you've sold so many at less than $15 to $25 per tonne (a standard figure that Government uses for estimating the cost of carbon credits in NZ). audionerd (29

) 10:01 pm, Wed 5 Sep

You appear to miss the point – we have not charged anybody anything – this is an open, public auction. But thanks for adding to the price discovery discussion. 4:37 pm, Thu 6 Sep

So are you saying that if Te Apiti wasn't operating, the electricity would be generated by carbon emitting generation technology? Surely that's the only way you can claim that Te Apiti is creating "credits". How can that be since all Meridian's electricity comes from renewable sources - i.e. you don't have any alternative electricity generation options. chowe (405

) 10:09 pm, Wed 5 Sep

Yes, that is what we are saying – if Te Apiti didn’t come on line in 2004, the electricity would be generated by other plants, including some that produce GHG emissions. The test of whether a project improves the future emissions scenario is not whether or not the project owner would produce emissions if they didn’t carry out the project, but whether emissions would come from other sources if the project didn’t go ahead. 4:37 pm, Thu 6 Sep

As a way of reducing the carbon footprint of a household, wouldn't it make more sense to turn off lights when not needed, recycle household rubbish items, be mindful of vehicle usage, plant a few trees ect ect, than to spend money on these "credits"????? It's certainty an interesting concept......... sultels (10

) 10:10 pm, Wed 5 Sep

Yes – we absolutely agree. Offsetting is the third part of the Measure, Manage, Mitigate sequence. 4:37 pm, Thu 6 Sep

Are you selling a "credit" because otherwise a tonne of carbon would have been emitted by fossil fuel generating technology? As I see it, you've been given a whole load of credits by the government which you then sold, on the basis that you needed them to make the building of the wind farm economically viable. You're now selling "credits" for cash based on tonnes of carbon not emitted, and then you're generating electricity and selling that as well. Have I got that right? chowe (405

) 10:12 pm, Wed 5 Sep

Good attempt! How the carbon credit process works is that renewable electricity generation projects that aren’t going to go ahead because they aren’t economic demonstrate that with the projected carbon credit revenue they will go ahead. The calculations to show that the carbon credit sales make the difference between the project happening or not already take sale of electricity into account. 4:38 pm, Thu 6 Sep

If I sell these credits to a big smokey polluter will they be able to retire these VERs against their 'carbon account' to meet their emission reduction obligations, having the government recognise these as valid reduction units. A big smoky polluter wouldn't want to buy these unless they helped them to meet their legislated emission reduction obligations. Will they have as much standing as Kyoto accredited AAU's and ERU's, for source emitters/storers? happymonique (17

) 10:13 pm, Wed 5 Sep

Depends who might want to purchase them. 4:38 pm, Thu 6 Sep

It just goes to show there is a sucker born every minute. These are no more than a tradeable commodity with absolutely no tangible value (or benefit) and are only worth what some PC sucker is prepared to part with to feel like they have played their part in a battle they have no chance of ever winning. fitzy (81

) 10:26 pm, Wed 5 Sep

Thanks for your comment. 4:38 pm, Thu 6 Sep

I would like to be the first to congratulate your advertising agency on their impending haul of creative and media awards asa a result of this auction. good work! paz42 (51

) 8:37 am, Thu 6 Sep

Cheers for that - it's all internal! 1:23 pm, Fri 7 Sep

Hi. A market in CO2 offsets is not on it's own a solution to the issues we face but well done Meridian for taking the risk of putting this auction out there, establishing a price on the effects of our behaviour and prompting this discussion. Could these credits from the Te Apiti be applied to some non-carbon neutral Merdian subsidiaries such as EFI? Thanks. spurs10 (47

) 10:18 am, Thu 6 Sep

You're right - this is only part of the solution. Thanks for the compliment. In line with our position any offsetting is done in an open and transparent manner by purchasing other credits to support another renewable energy project in New Zealand. 1:31 pm, Fri 7 Sep

If people want to save the environment why not go with Nuclear Power? "..Nuclear Plants emit less CO2 than any of its other energy production mechanisms including Hydro, Wind, Solar and Biomass although all of these processes emit much less than fossil fuel generation of electricity." (this includes mining, milling, plant construction, operating ..etc) http://nuclearinfo.net/Nuclearpower/WebHomeGreenhouseEmissionsOfNuclearPower Not as bad or evil as people are lead to believe. eilidh1 (130

) 10:36 am, Thu 6 Sep

Thanks for your comment. 1:33 pm, Fri 7 Sep

Landcare Research can sell people credits that are just as worthy as these for a lot less than $150/unit. Don't you think you should acknowledge this? Aren't you taking unfair advantage of an extremely naive market? What are you going to do with the profits? geraldo3 (37

) 10:48 am, Thu 6 Sep

Thanks for another price comparison - you've done it for us. As we have said earlier, there are many motives to purchasing the first ever publically available voluntary carbon credits. 1:22 pm, Fri 7 Sep

isn't the going rate for a carbon credit (1 tonne) on the international market only around USD$26? faceman (71

) 12:27 pm, Thu 6 Sep

Thanks for the information - prices will obviously range depending on the market and the product. 1:34 pm, Fri 7 Sep

What can an individual do with these, and as there is no law requiring an individual to pay for their carbon emmissions, what value is there to them. doug64 (274

) 2:39 pm, Thu 6 Sep

We think the answer as to what an individual can do has been well covered in answers to previous questions. As to the value, this will differ - over time, market conditions, and how an individual might value it. 1:44 pm, Fri 7 Sep

Are these noisy? rumple1 (91

) 2:53 pm, Thu 6 Sep

Judging by the questions - very! 1:45 pm, Fri 7 Sep

Will these clash with the decor in my home, i.e. will they ruin the view? rumple1 (91

) 2:53 pm, Thu 6 Sep

If you are the successful bidder we would happily reccommend a stylist. 1:46 pm, Fri 7 Sep

Seller Comment: The KP implements a global cap covering those countries that are participating. The VERs currently on auction relate to a voluntary, rather than regulated market. That means they help neutralise carbon emissions but don’t count toward specified emission reduction targets. Voluntary offsetting in a climate change hierarchy, comes after measuring and reducing emissions. Good offset credits come from projects that actually reduce emissions. 4:34 pm, Thu 6 Sep

Are these credits verified taking into account the poor reliability of those Te Apiti turbines that fail before their warranty period? audionerd (29

) 5:06 pm, Thu 6 Sep

These credits relate to emission reductions that have been verified by DNV to have occurred in the calendar year 2006. 2:05 pm, Fri 7 Sep

Since there is no consensus about the price and people are often confused by the so called "wide-range" carbon credits then it is not mature to be put on for auction. What you should have done is to sell them to people who really know about it and need it (say local manufacturers?) instead of letting a bunch of ill informed people like me to make frenzy bid without knowing the consequences. I hope this is only a legal but undisclosed "trial" action run by Meridian for market-research purpose. pshoi (61

) 5:52 pm, Thu 6 Sep

We think you are underestimating the knowledge of many of our bidders. We have been delighted by the engagement of so many people over the issue of carbon trading. 1:53 pm, Fri 7 Sep

How can this be a useful price discovery exercise when you are selling something most of the bidders dont understand - I hope your bidders actually understand these things are worth around $30/T so $600 in total and are prepared to pay more for entirely personal reasons otherwise it could be seen as taking advantage of your shareholders craign69 (2

) 6:16 pm, Thu 6 Sep

Part of answering these questions - including the dodgy ones - has been to ensure those bidding are informed. There is lots of information on this subject - as has been pointed out in previous questions. 1:57 pm, Fri 7 Sep

i have read that you have sold credits to the Netherlands Govt and the Christchurch Council are they the same credits as these? would the winner be able to do this also? looyer (106

) 6:26 pm, Thu 6 Sep

We have sold Emission Reduction Units (ERUs) to the Dutch government, which will contribute to their requirements over the first Kyoto committment period. These are not the same credits that are posted on Trade Me. The ERUs are Kyoto credits, whereas the VERs are voluntary. The Christchurch City Council had their own agreement with the New Zealand Government through the Projects to Reduce Emissions Programme - for more information on that see www.mfe.govt.nz 2:04 pm, Fri 7 Sep

Is there any private business that has managed to get carbon credits for free ? so far it appears that the only ones getting them are Power Co's SOE's and Councils who are selling out of their windfall ? I have noticed close to Rotorua that a lot of large forestry companies are chopping thier trees down if planted after 1990 as they are getting charged $13,500Ha for pre 1990 tree removal when converting to Dairy or subdividing . Any comment ? barcelona1 (811

) 7:10 pm, Thu 6 Sep

Under the Projects to Reduce Emissions programme (PRE) and the Negotiated Greenhouse Agreements (NGAs) a number of companies and organisations across sectors received ERUs that they could use. See www.mfe.govt.nz for more information. Thanks. 2:34 pm, Fri 7 Sep

Congrats to those trying to initiat a trade in nothing with no effective purpose. Bid, bid, bid while the ones with the one word and mocking replies smirk at their handiwork! keith19 (25

) 8:56 pm, Thu 6 Sep

Thanks for your comment 2:32 pm, Fri 7 Sep

There is no way of pricing the cost of the impact of carbon emissions on the environment. The sale of carbon credits does not and never will encourages the development of projects that reduce emissions (like Te Apiti). Trademe should be rapped over the nuckles for encoraging/tolerating this rubbish on its site! keith19 (25

) 9:04 pm, Thu 6 Sep

Great to see you're engaged in the discussion. Thanks for your comment. 2:36 pm, Fri 7 Sep

Hi - How does the exchange of money actually benefit the planet ? I appreciate there are many different views of the world but as a reality check I would encourage the general public to take a look at one of the worlds most experienced conservationists David Attenborough views on this issue of global warming. Please don't forget we faced a the threat of an ice age in the 70's, SARS, bird flu, pandemic would I sound like a trouble maker if I suggested money was at the bottom of all this - thx shoreman1 (52

) 9:43 pm, Thu 6 Sep

Thanks for your comment. 2:38 pm, Fri 7 Sep

How do these credits compare with those from Happy Valley that were on sale here a while ago (apart from the fact they were a kind of joke/donation + would have no financial/investment value)? ie, raw environmental impact. adx (186

) 10:26 pm, Thu 6 Sep

For information on the quality of our voluntary carbon credits have a look at www.cdmgoldstandard.org 2:40 pm, Fri 7 Sep

Have to agree with Fitzy - THERE IS A SUCKER BORN EVERY MINUTE - as well as omeone more than willing to string them along for their own gain. verry (110

) 10:42 pm, Thu 6 Sep

Thanks for your comment. 2:42 pm, Fri 7 Sep

From what I can gather, you have been given these Carbon Credits because you could have burnt coal to make popwer, but instead decided to build a wind farm? Well, today I was going to plough a paddock, and burn lots of diesel, but I decided not to. Tommorrow I might decide not to cut down a tree. So do you think Auntie Helen will give me some carbon credits to sell on TradeMe also??? valetta3 (30

) 10:45 pm, Thu 6 Sep

You could ask. 2:45 pm, Fri 7 Sep

Will you refund the money is global warming is proven to be untrue? emmess (14

) 11:17 pm, Thu 6 Sep

A better question might have been "is the earth round". We can confirm on latest information that it is. 2:29 pm, Fri 7 Sep

You are doing a great job of answering the deluge of questions. Although an eyesore, I support wind farms and any renewable energy. Carbon credits are an OPPORTUNITY not to be missed by the greed merchants, they are ARTIFICIAL and do ** all to inhibit emissions in REAL LIFE. We need to plant 272 broad leaf trees (not pathetic acidic pine needle trees)for EACH car to achieve carbon zero. Many trees live for hundreds of years, we have done nothing but prematurely destroy the filter. dealit (163

) 1:00 am, Fri 7 Sep

Thanks for your comment. 2:46 pm, Fri 7 Sep

Instead of investing in synthetic carbon credits, to make a true tangible difference to climate, would it not be prudent for all businesses to invest in actual physical devices that are PROVEN to cut emissions by HUGE margins? For example devices such as the BOB catalytic converter are available for large combustion engines on trucks, buses, ships, generators etc. AND it increases kms travelled per litre. No brainer if you ask me and you get to keep it for life! Get it right NZ. dealit (163

) 1:13 am, Fri 7 Sep

There are many ways and technologies to tackle climate change. Thanks for your input. 2:47 pm, Fri 7 Sep

how do these "neutralise carbon emmissions" (see your answer to fitzy)? if i buy, do the dollars i spend actually absorb the carbon i emit, or neutralise it through some chemical process? I think you're just trying to make money based on hype and mis information. Shame on you and Trademe. nic137 (17

) 9:48 am, Fri 7 Sep

If you want more information on how to become carbon neutral - go to www.carbonzero.co.nz 2:50 pm, Fri 7 Sep

I estimate that each year my car adds 1100kg of carbon dioxide to the atmosphere burning petrol extracted from below the earth's surface. How will buying your windfarm credits put this carbon dioxide back underground? Do your windmills pump carbon underground? tonyc2 (6

) 11:57 am, Fri 7 Sep

The carbon credits brought forward the construction of the Te Apiti windfarm which meant that future investment in thermal generation was avoided. What you appear to be confusing is carbon capture and storage with renewable generation. 2:58 pm, Fri 7 Sep

Seller Comment: We have updated our summary of the principal terms of Meridian's VER Sales Agreement to reflect recent advice from the Gold Standard Foundation (www.meridianenergy.co.nz). This advice relates to the process of transferring these VERs in the Gold Standard Foundation's registry, once this is available. 12:10 pm, Fri 7 Sep

Hi there, do you have a 'buy now'? Thanks. time2002 (102

) 1:27 pm, Fri 7 Sep

No - for full explanation, see earlier answer. 2:59 pm, Fri 7 Sep

Seller Comment: Thanks everybody for the questions - the good, the bad, and the funny! We won't be answering any more over the weekend. If any new points are raised, we will answer these as soon as we can on Monday. Thanks again for participating. 5:09 pm, Fri 7 Sep

Trade Me have gone and shown my top Auto Bid, as I did not bid against myself? So now please remove all my bids, I am not into this devious type of behaviour. So bugger Trade Me they will be getting less sales comission now. kjh2 (288

) 5:24 pm, Fri 7 Sep

Happy to do so. We understand Trade Me asked you to confirm your bids were genuine and you did not confirm this. 5:51 pm, Fri 7 Sep

NOT True how did my top auto bid get displayed when I did not bid against myself? I have 100% and over 200 positive feedbacks and dont bid against myself ever. So annoyed will close my entire account and use e-bay instead. These Aussies getting to big for there boots. kjh2 (288

) 5:58 pm, Fri 7 Sep

Carbon Planet aus selling credits for $23A per tonne te-aroha (66

) 6:22 pm, Fri 7 Sep

Do you even have a securities licence to legally be able to onsell these credits te-aroha (66

) 6:43 pm, Fri 7 Sep

Regarding this http://epw.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?FuseAction=Minority.Blogs&ContentRecord_id=84e9e44a- 802a-23ad-493a-b35d0842fed8 What do you think about the fact that the hottest year on record in the continental US is 1934? Also what do you think about the fact that less than half of peer reviewed articles do not endorse anthropogenic global warming? emmess (14

) 8:09 pm, Fri 7 Sep

If an estimated 1100kg of carbon dioxide gets added to the atmosphere by an average car per year, how much more carbon dioxide and other dangerous gasses, gets added to the atmosphere per year by volcano's all over the world? The contibution we make is nothing compared to those of volcano's. What are we going to do about that? mrdino (1007

) 8:42 am, Sat 8 Sep

Why not just buy an inanimate carbon rod? Then you can measure its effectiveness right in from of your own eyes, worked for Homer Simpson! I have the perfect buyer for your credits...the Australian Government! They produce more emissions when they are sitting in Parliament than the whole of BHP / Rio Tinto's operations here in Australia do in one year! Reduce Carbon emissions, cork up a politician today, before we all suffocate! Sorry Helen! merlymoo (23

) 8:54 am, Sat 8 Sep

wtf, do u have anything to do with save happey valley. riedy (20

) 11:16 am, Sat 8 Sep

have u got an address that i can view your carbon credits at. we also have our own wind generator and solar pv panels would u be interested in trading our credits for some off yours. ps what the difference between our credits and yours. doodle3 (109

) 3:19 pm, Sat 8 Sep

Hi i have a scrub block that has a carbon credit rateing. I tried to place an auction in this section but it appears im not allowed to, is this section for you only? pur-chase (247

) 3:49 pm, Sat 8 Sep

By no means is this section reserved for us – in fact we would welcome participants – and judging from the other listings attempted – there is considerable interest! There will be criteria that need to be met which both Trade Me and M-co are responsible for. 1:49 pm, Mon 10 Sep

You should be selling hellium credits grimo (151

) 11:08 pm, Sat 8 Sep

Clever scientists think purchasers of these carbon credits may not be able to claim they are Carbon neutral due to way these credis produced - see news relesase at http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/SC0709/S00011.htm too big to edit down here.... drumml (29

) 8:41 am, Sun 9 Sep

Has anyone been onto the carboNZero.co.nz website?, you will see there that anyone bidding on these credits are idiots. You can offset your emissions there at a cost of approx $34 per tonne of CO2 emissions (1985 kg would cost me $67.5 Therefore 20 credits (of which I understand corresponds to 20 tonnes) should cost around $680! Any bidders are wasting their money...and personally I think Meridian should not be allowed to continue making ridiculous amounts of money from brainwashed consumers!! jamesmaca (52

) 10:34 am, Sun 9 Sep

Congratulations on these auctions. This is an emerging market. To criticise on the basis that there is no climate problem or that we can do nothing about it is dim. To criticise on the basis that this is not a perfect solution is unimaginitive. If nothing else the auctions raise awareness by demonstrating that the public wants better environmental solutions and is willing to pay for them. Thus they encourage Businesses and Governments to provide better answers, & I can't see any harm in that. stobbo1 (102

) 12:26 pm, Sun 9 Sep

Thanks for the positive feedback – always nice to get a bouquet rather than a brickbat! 1:50 pm, Mon 10 Sep

B doona4 (512

) 4:25 pm, Sun 9 Sep

Hi, For every mega/watt of wind energy you try to achieve,don't you have to have the same mege/watt avaliability in standby thermal power stations, for when the wind does not blow. does this have any bearing on these carbon credits. msigg (64

) 5:14 pm, Sun 9 Sep

Good point – New Zealand is well placed to use its hydro capacity to firm wind generation - rather than requiring thermal. For a more in-depth discussion of these issues – see the OptionsChoiceDecisions publication on our website www.meridianenergy.co.nz. 1:52 pm, Mon 10 Sep

Are these credits able to be used to reduce carbon emmisions from a potential building when that building is trying to acheive say a 5star green rating from the NZ green building council? scott010 (118

) 6:42 pm, Sun 9 Sep

Yes – these carbon credits can be retired as part of a carbon neutral programme after you have calculated your carbon footprint. Usually, these programmes require you to first measure, then reduce – and offset the remainder. 1:54 pm, Mon 10 Sep

Well done Meridian! Not content with JUST over charging New Zealanders for YOUR over spending and lack of resource management, you have now come up with ANOTHER confusing, missleading and down right dodgey way of extorting money from the average kiwi.First its threating to with-hold water from farmers unless you get your way, and now this!Can i interest you in my left nut?.you seem to want everything else! shame on you Meridian,Trade Me,M-co and Landcare!(let me guess-thnx for your comment?) willytheekid (93

) 7:00 pm, Sun 9 Sep

I find it hard to believe, that i pay my power bills, onlt to have someone in head office sits at a computer and answer emials all day..!What a waiste of money, why dont you sell these at a fixed price and have done with all this caibosh.. shadeydaz (43

) 7:30 pm, Sun 9 Sep

do these credits last for the life of the wind farm or do they have an expiry date. thanks for starting the ball rolling in good old NZ mwmwg (206

) 8:10 pm, Sun 9 Sep

This does prove all sorts of rubbish ends up on trademe. Some juvenile glass tower dweller is playing with trademe clients. Judge the quality of the one liners: this mischivous experiment by the the glass tower quassi government paid executive non producers shouldn't be tolerated!!! Shame Trademe!!! keith19 (25

) 8:51 pm, Sun 9 Sep

S doona4 (512

) 10:16 pm, Sun 9 Sep

hey these look like a great way to make some money can i have some "carbon credits" to sell on to the public? pyromaniac2 (80

) 10:21 pm, Sun 9 Sep

This stupidity simply translates as a "Licence to Pollute" for the buyer and at best only encourages the maintaining of the status quo, resulting in no net reduction in co2 emissions - just appeasing the guilt of the rich. We are selling our children short and most people still don't get it. Thumbs down Meridian - thanks for not helping. gtl (87

) 2:53 am, Mon 10 Sep

I asked this question "Can you produce figures from when the scheme was committed for construction that show that without green subsidies, the scheme was uneconomic - and therefore highly risky?" You referred me to the GS website. The DNV report does not show that the project is uneconomic without carbon subsidies. It does not even discuss project economics. Can you please answer the question? buzzl (17

) 7:49 am, Mon 10 Sep

Rather than the DNV report – you will need to have a look at the Project Design Document on the same web page. 1:55 pm, Mon 10 Sep

has made for some interesting reading on an otherwise boring day at the office. Carbon footprints, resource consents, second life virtual worlds....screw it im off in my 4x4 to go for a fish in my 2 stroke tinny to catch a tangible feed! To the winner of the auction how many of your credits will you use to drive to the bank to pay for them? does it mean if you grow pot for a crust you can sell your crops credits? graeme156 (146

) 9:40 am, Mon 10 Sep

will the successfull buyer be tied into having to re-purchase these for future carbon emissions? And how would on go about measuring their own carbon emissions? pwaddles (369

) 10:56 am, Mon 10 Sep

so the money you make from these "Carbon credits" is being spent on what, if i may ask.????? dragontales (816

) 1:52 pm, Mon 10 Sep

Surely to give a value to the Carbon credit they will have to introduce a Carbon Debit. Is that Helens next mistake. monty78 (5

) 2:34 pm, Mon 10 Sep

Why is is that reducing carbon emissions gains carbon credits from the government, while an actual carbon sink such as FORESTRY receives none?? This windfarm is not a carbon sink it is merely a better alternative to burning coal etc. Therefore should a person that rides a bike receive carbon credits from the government because they are carbon neutral as opposed to driving a car? gizzy_joe (40

) 3:50 pm, Mon 10 Sep

Just really wanted to try to address a couple of concerns some people have shown. Firstly, that the carbon trade has collapsed (the article in the Guardian). The EUETS has not been a failure, it has been a massive success. There was an absolute collapse in the price of EUAs, but this was due to a leaked document showing there had been an overallocation of credits. The price has since bounced right back for the 2008 vintage credits, and volume is growing steadily. stevo176 (5

) 4:40 pm, Mon 10 Sep

With respect to how effective the system is, there have been a large number of companies that have had to invest significant amounts in cleaner technology, as carbon credits are now such a significant business cost. Corporates do not have a moral conscience that can be weighed upon. They do, however, have profits; and when you impact their profits, you change their behaviour. stevo176 (5

) 4:43 pm, Mon 10 Sep

Some are unhappy with speculators making money from the carbon trade. As with any commodities market, the carbon market exists for companies and individuals to manage their exposure to price movement. Speculators accept a measure of risk for the potential for profit, and in so doing allow these persons to manage their risk and/or compliance requirements. stevo176 (5

) 5:11 pm, Mon 10 Sep

In short (too late); carbon emissions trading is the only system devised so far that is forcing real change worldwide. It is far from perfect, but it is irresponsible to turn your back on it because of misgivings about who is profiting from it. By so doing, you will be playing into the hands of Bush et al. (Not gore...) I commend M-Co on the initiative shown in encouraging the development of a carbon market in NZ. (But these Carbon credits are way too expensive lol) stevo176 (5

) 5:14 pm, Mon 10 Sep

I don't wish to be negative and are more than happy to encourage rational measures to help mitigation of environmental problems and issues just feel that this auction isn't worth the paper its written on. Oh and yes, back from your weekend off! well then answer the damn letters and don't insult the system with your indifference keith19 (25

) 5:59 pm, Mon 10 Sep

so why should i pay 3K for something that is worth nothing. i walked to school today instead of driving, does that mean i saved some cardon credit and can sell them for 3k? i might just do that. boy13 (6

) 6:38 pm, Mon 10 Sep

will i achieve enlightenment is I buy these credits? hockeydog (31

) 6:46 pm, Mon 10 Sep

its cold in this country,roll on global warming fridgexr8 (103

) 6:48 pm, Mon 10 Sep

So the winner of this auction is basically donating money to Meridian Energy to fund the progress of the Te \Apiti Wind Farm? tankbogan (35

) 7:27 pm, Mon 10 Sep

(Wallace C/o Mozwart) This looks like a bit of a scam to me!! However - TradeMe is involved in it as well ? Dont you think there are better ways of making people aware of climate-change than depleting their wallets, selling childish "trading-cards" like useless certificates? There was a personal carbon credit auction for sale, I was going to bid!, but T/M pulled the auction!! Weird. Sure makes you wonder something fishys going on! mozwart (297

) 8:00 pm, Mon 10 Sep

(again Wallace C/o mozwart) Sorry, I simply must quote this on this auction, I dont blame you if you dont reply immediately - it would just confirm that this auction is a bit suss! Quote: "A fool and their money are soon parted!" And, congratulations on making money out of fools. I wish I had of thought of it sooner, but I am too honest to rip even foolish people off! (pls dont flame mozwart, I'm hijacking their PC while they are out! :) mozwart (297

) 8:08 pm, Mon 10 Sep

HI, PLEASE NOTE EVRYBODY FOR INFO THAT MERIDIAN IS NUMBER 1 OF THE NEW GREENPEACE ENERGY PROVIDERS LIST, WORTH MENTIONNING AND SUPPORTING cheers rachaelo (138

) 8:49 pm, Mon 10 Sep

You must be getting tired now! I have read all these questions and answers. In the beginning you sounded so positive and even convincing. Now I get the feeling it's finally getting through your thick skull that the public are not fools and don't buy into this shit so easily. However, "a fool and his money are easily parted" so obviously you have succeded. lizzie-anne (55

) 8:59 pm, Mon 10 Sep

One other thing, we are the poor bastards that have to look out onto these eye sores every day. You probably live in Auckland and couldn't care less. lizzie-anne (55

) 9:01 pm, Mon 10 Sep

You guys Rock. Not only having the courage of your convictions, but also (along with MCO and Trade Me) doing more to raise awareness of Carbon production and minimisation than anyone else in NZ! Well done you! alj (59

) 9:16 pm, Mon 10 Sep

carbon credits are a croc, get rid of the current govenment and this country might start developing, shame on you for supporting another tax visarabbit (2

) 9:29 pm, Mon 10 Sep

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20 Meridian 'Gold Standard' Carbon Credits

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