Document Actions
About the Commission
The Electricity Commission is a Crown entity set up under the Electricity Act to oversee New Zealand's electricity industry and markets. It began operating in September 2003.
The Commission regulates the operation of the electricity industry and markets (wholesale and retail) in accordance with the Electricity Act and government energy policy.
The Commission's principal objective, as set out in the Electricity Act, is to ensure that electricity is produced and delivered to all classes of consumers in an efficient, fair, reliable and environmentally sustainable manner. The Commission is also required to promote and facilitate the efficient use of electricity.
The Commission has extensive powers to regulate to achieve its aims, However, before introducing new regulations, the Commission will consult widely with stakeholders and use influence to seek mutual solutions.
The Commission was established following concerns from the government that the existing industry arrangements did not provide for the effective management of the sector and that the existing governance arrangements did not ensure security of supply in dry years.
The Commission must operate in a manner that is consistent with the New Zealand government's Government Policy Statement (GPS). The GPS sets the objectives and outcomes that the Government expects of the Commission.
The Commission is governed by an executive chair and four other members appointed by the Minister of Energy. The Commission Board members have been appointed on the basis of their extensive knowledge of, or experience in, the electricity industry, electricity markets, regulatory processes and public policy.
The Commission has a team of about 40 staff. Its approach has been to develop a small, strong core team of high quality generalists and to use specialist contractors as required.
A number of organisations are contracted to the Commission to provide services necessary to administer the electricity markets on a day-to-day basis. The Commission is responsible for the management of these service providers which are:
+64 4 460 8860
+64 4 460 8879