Electricity Authority consults on rule changes to level the power playing field

The Electricity Authority Te Mana Hiko (the Authority) is seeking feedback on proposed rule changes to level the playing field between the four large gentailers (Genesis, Contact, Meridian and Mercury) and independent participants in the electricity market.

“The recommended new rules make sure all retailers are operating on a level playing field and help ensure accountability and transparency in the market,” says Electricity Authority Chair Anna Kominik.

The proposals have been developed by the Energy Competition Task Force and have been designed to boost competition, build confidence in the wholesale market, and ultimately give New Zealanders better access to affordable electricity.

“The mandatory non-discrimination obligations we are consulting on would mean the gentailers’ wholesale businesses cannot treat independent retailers differently from their own retail arms.

“This is the latest of a series of pro-competition measures that are designed to help address concerns about the market from independent players, and future-proof the system for the benefit of all New Zealanders,” says Kominik.

In February, the Authority sought public and industry views on options to improve competition. Following that feedback, the Authority announced in August it would proceed with consultation on mandatory non-discrimination obligations.

“We’ve revised parts of the proposed approach after feedback and believe it should now be faster to implement and easier to enforce.

“The Authority wants to have any changes in place early next year, but we want to hear whether we’ve got the settings right.” says Kominik.

Commerce Commission Chair and Task Force member Dr John Small says: “We want to give new players and investors the confidence to enter the market, encourage the expansion of existing independent generators and retailers and promote the development of innovative new products and services. This, and the other pro-competition measures announced in August, will improve transparency for all participants.”

Subject to feedback it is proposed that the non-discrimination obligations regime be included in the Electricity Industry Participation Code in early 2026, with the first gentailer reports on their compliance with the new obligations due by 1 July 2026.

We will host a webinar to talk through the consultation paper and answer any questions at 1pm on Friday 17 October. Register for the webinar

View consultation