Commerce Commission sets expectations for competition in electricity connections

The Commerce Commission has issued a letter to all electricity distributors and Transpower, setting out its expectations for greater competition in electricity connection works ahead of further work by the Energy Competition Task Force in 2027. 

For many households and businesses, getting connected to the electricity network is their main interaction with their local network company. The cost, speed and quality of that service can have a significant impact on consumers and the wider economy.

The Commission expects networks to support consumer choice by allowing approved third-party providers to compete for connection works wherever it is safe and practical. Networks should help consumers compare providers on price, service and timeliness, and clearly explain which parts of the connection process are open to competition and which are not.

The Commission also expects networks to treat competing providers fairly and not favour their own contracting businesses. It will continue monitoring consumer choice in electricity connections and reminds networks that conduct that restricts competition could raise concerns under the Commerce Act.