How do I know if I am getting the best price from my current electricity provider?

The Powerswitch website run by the Consumers Institute provides a reliable comparison of prices offered by all electricity retail companies.

Who do I contact if I wish to dispute a charge on my electricity bill?

First, you should contact the electricity retailer who sent you the bill and attempt to resolve the problem directly.

If you are unable to resolve the dispute yourself, you can contact the Electricity and Gas Complaints Commission. This is run separately from the Electricity Commission.  The Electricity and Gas Complaints Commission runs a free and independent dispute-resolution service. Contact:

Electricity and Gas Complaints Commissioner
Phone: 0800 22 33 40
Fax: 0800 22 33 47

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Does the Commission set electricity prices?

No. The Commission seeks to ensure wholesale and retail electricity markets operate efficiently. It has no power to control wholesale or retail electricity prices. Complaints about overcharging by electricity companies are handled by the Commerce Commission.

Why does the Commission impose a levy?

The Commission is funded by an appropriation from Parliament that is recovered through a levy on the electricity industry. Some electricity companies choose to pass on the levy to consumers.

The bulk of the levy is used to maintain the integrity of the electricity system, ensuring that it is managed to produce and deliver electricity in an efficient, fair, reliable and environmentally sustainable manner. The levy also provides for the creation of reserve energy and assists the Commission to promote and facilitate the efficient use of electricity.

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What’s the difference between the Electricity Commission and the Commerce Commission?

The Electricity Commission oversees the electricity industry to maintain the integrity of the electricity industry and markets. It regulates the operation of the electricity industry and markets in accordance with the Electricity Act 1992 and government energy policy but it does not control prices.

The Commerce Commission enforces legislation that promotes competition in New Zealand markets, and prohibits misleading and deceptive conduct by traders.  The Commerce Commission also has an ‘enforcement and adjudication’ role under the Electricity Industry Reform Act 1988 and has responsibilities under Part 4A of the Commerce Act 1986, specifically in relation to large electricity lines businesses. In recent times it has imposed price control on electricity lines companies.

How can I get straightforward information about security of electricity supply?

The Supplyline web service is an Electricity Commission publication, providing information on the outlook for security of supply in the New Zealand electricity system.

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