Consultation opens on how retailers will provide consistent information about their power plans

The Electricity Authority Te Mana Hiko has opened consultation on a proposed format for the prescribed Electricity Information Exchange Protocol 14A – Retailer product information (EIEP14A).

EIEP14A is the format which will standardise how industry participants share information about electricity products and plans – both with other industry participants and with consumers. This follows our recent decisions to:

• replace the existing Electricity Information Exchange Protocol 14: Retailer Tariff Notification (EIEP14) with a new modular suite of protocols.: EIEP14A, EIEP14B, and EIEP14C
• require that information for both generally available plans and “legacy” plans be provided in response to requests for product information made under the Code
• require retailers to assign a product identification code to every retail tariff plan they offer.

These decisions are part of our work to improve how consumers access information about available electricity plans. Standardising electricity product information ultimately makes it easier for consumers to choose the right electricity plan for their needs.

Retailers will need to use EIEP14A from October 2026, alongside complying with other Code changes taking effect that improve consumer electricity billing and require retailers to offer time‑varying plans.

The Authority is now seeking feedback on the proposals for the format of EIEP14A, with consultation open until 26 March 2026 and a final decision expected in April.

Timely, consistent and reliable information also helps third parties – such as comparison and switching services – develop better tools and services for consumers. This will improve the accuracy of comparison websites, and bring transparency, accountability and long-term value for New Zealanders.

Better tools and services will give consumers more confidence when it comes to choosing the electricity plan that works best for them. As consumers gain confidence in comparing and switching, retailers will face more competitive pressure, driving innovation and better service in the market.

When retailers operate in a market where product information is transparent and comparable – competitive pressures benefit consumers by putting downward pressure on price and lifting service quality. This benefits all consumers – even those who do not actively compare or switch.

The Authority acknowledges and appreciates the ongoing contributions of stakeholders across the sector, whose participation continues to support improvements to product standards and broader efforts to enhance consumer mobility in the electricity market.

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