General news
Authority investigations into alleged Code breaches double
- Code
- Compliance
The Electricity Authority investigated twice as many alleged breaches of the Electricity Industry Participation Code 2010 in the past financial year.
This increase shows we are focused on actively monitoring and enforcing Code obligations in line with our Compliance Strategy and Enforcement and Prosecution Policy. Effective compliance supports a reliable, efficient and competitive electricity system for the benefit of consumers.
In 2024/25, the Authority appointed investigators on 10 occasions to investigate reported breaches of the Code – up from five in the previous financial year. This is the highest number of investigations since 2019/20.
For every alleged Code breach, the Authority initially reviews all the information provided. We then request more information from the reporting party, or other relevant parties, if needed. Finally, we assess whether to take no further action or appoint an investigator.
We make decisions on whether to appoint an investigator in accordance with the Electricity Industry (Enforcement) Regulations 2010, the Authority’s Compliance Strategy and Enforcement and Prosecution Policy. When assessing a case, we consider the:
- industry participant’s compliance history and behaviour
- actual or potential impact of the alleged breach
- level of industry or consumer awareness
- Authority’s objectives, functions and outcomes.
After an investigation, the Authority may discontinue a case or refer it to the independent Rulings Panel. Only the most serious alleged breaches/behaviour are referred to the Panel due to the cost and level of resources required.
One case was referred to the Rulings Panel in 2024/25 and since then three more complaints have been lodged with the Panel.
Related News
Stress test disclosures due by 25 March 2026
The stress testing regime requires certain participants in the wholesale electricity market to test their exposure to changes in spot electricity prices and re…
Annual review of the System Operator’s performance
As New Zealand’s electricity regulator, the Electricity Authority Te Mana Hiko is responsible for the settings under the Electricity Industry Participation Cod…
Case study: providing complete and accurate information to the Electricity Registry
We have published a case study for industry participants who are required to provide information to the Electricity Registry.