Meridian’s Wellington operation will soon move into a new building in the Kumutoto precinct of Wellington’s waterfront. The building’s design, build and ongoing operation are led by sustainable development principles. The technologically sophisticated building will be ventilated through natural air flow and will use 60% less electricity and 70% less water than is the norm for corporate office buildings.
The company’s Chief Information Officer, Rob Bolton, says in developing the technology solution, Meridian established a set of work style principles.
“Our vision was for an open, flexible working environment that will encourage communication and collaboration while being energy efficient and reducing Meridian’s carbon footprint,” says Bolton.
“The solution principally uses laptops with softphones, secure wireless technology, integrated mobile phones and access to digital media. These integrate with the easy-to-use audio-visual equipment in meeting rooms and the total package will enhance collaboration across the organisation.
“Altogether, Meridian will be a showcase for energy efficiency and environmental sustainability, as well as having a cost effective, productive and comfortable work environment that excites and energises our people.
“We intend to roll out the technology solution to our offices in Christchurch, Manapouri and Twizel once we’ve successfully implemented in Wellington.
“We have worked with a hand-picked group of vendors and taken a team approach to designing this solution,” says Bolton.
Key components of the technology solution and the vendors involved include:
· IBM – systems integrator for the Cisco Unified Communications and PIVoD audio visual solution
· ABB – systems integrator for the Cisco data network and wireless LAN. ABB will also manage the ongoing support for the unified communications, audio visual and network technology
· HP – supplying the laptop and desktop hardware together with a refreshed “managed operating environment”. HP will also manage the ongoing laptop/desktop support and the service desk for the technology solution.
· Cisco – supplying the unified communications, mobile integration, collaboration tools, digital media streaming, data network and wireless LAN technology
· PIVoD – delivering the audio visual solution, providing integration with the Cisco technology and the building management system through their IP-based SimPhonE control system
· Tandberg – supplying the video conferencing equipment
· FujiXerox – supplying the MFD print/scan/copy equipment and the “follow me” printing solution
· Vodafone – delivering the mobile network connectivity and mobile handsets
· Telco Asset Management – technical advice and quality assurance for the complete technology solution being deployed into the Queens Wharf building.
Meridian Energy is a 100 percent New Zealand owned generator, trader and retailer of energy and complimentary products and solutions. It generates more than 30 percent of New Zealand’s electricity from renewable resources, all of which is independently certified carbon neutral.
For further information contact:
Alan Seay
External Relations Advisor
Ph (04) 381-1243 or 021 494-475