Transitioning to a more digital electricity system

Improving information on high-voltage network capacity

Upcoming Open Closed Decision
Make a cross-submission Due by 2 July 2026
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Consultation

We are seeking feedback on proposals that would improve the visibility of capacity and constraints on all high-voltage distribution networks (networks conveying electricity at voltages of 1000 volts AC or more). This information would help people make informed investment decisions about connecting new generation, load and energy storage, and where flexibility services would deliver the most value.

For distributors, we think improved network visibility would support better network planning and help them identify where flexibility services could be used to defer or avoid network upgrades.

Over time, we expect these benefits would increase competition, enhance security of supply and support lower costs flowing through to consumers’ power bills. The proposals would require distributors publishing up-to-date information about their high-voltage networks, including:

  • load and export capacity (both current and forecast)
  • network topology
  • planned upgrades
  • historical reliability
  • the potential use of non-network solutions as lower-cost alternatives to building more infrastructure.

We further propose distributors publish this information in standardised, downloadable and visual formats so the information can be understood and compared across distributors.

This consultation follows analysis of existing information disclosure requirements, and our earlier discussion paper and in-person workshop in September-October 2025.

Submissions are published below. We welcome cross-submissions by 5pm, 2 July 2026.

Consultation paper

Improving information on high-voltage networks - Consultation paper

Improving information on high-voltage networks - Consultation paper

Submissions

Download all submissions (.zip)

Make a cross-submission

We welcome cross-submissions by 5pm, 2 July 2026 to distribution.feedback@ea.govt.nz.

If you cannot send your feedback electronically, or would prefer to make a verbal submission, please contact us at distribution.feedback@ea.govt.nz or 04 460 8860 to discuss arrangements.

Please note, we intend to publish all submissions we receive. If you consider we should not publish any part of your submission, please:

  • indicate which part should not be published and explain why, and
  • provide a version we can publish (if we agree not to publish your full feedback).

If you indicate part of your submission should not be published, we will discuss this with you before deciding whether to not publish that part of your submission.

All feedback, including any parts the Authority does not proactively publish, can be requested under the Official Information Act 1982.