11 Mar 2013

Opposition wants answers on power price rises

7:30 am on 11 March 2013

Opposition parties want new Energy Minister Simon Bridges to acknowledge New Zealand has a problem with increasing electricity prices.

Opposition parties want new Energy Minister Simon Bridges to acknowledge New Zealand has a problem with increasing electricity prices.

Officials have advised the minister that power prices are likely to continue to rise in the longer term to support investment in new infrastructure.

Labour Party energy spokesperson Moana Mackey says the Government does not seem to be concerned about ever-increasing electricity prices for consumers.

She says at a time of flat demand and an oversupply of power, answers are needed about why prices are still going up.

The Green Party says the level of competition in the electricity market should be investigated.

But Mr Bridges says while the Government is nowhere near having to intervene to alleviate price pressure, he is watching closely to ensure the market stays competitive and prices are kept reasonable.