The Canterbury region recorded the highest switching rates in the country with 6,273 consumers* (2.1 percent) switching electricity provider in July. In the Canterbury region in July there were 19 electricity brands to choose from.

The Authority’s Acting Chief Executive, Rory Blundell says, “It’s great to see consumers in the Canterbury region actively shopping around for a good deal on their electricity plan.”

“When companies have to compete by offering better prices or deals, consumers have more choices and can play a more active role in the market by making more informed decisions.

“Every year around 22 percent of consumers switch electricity provider. But it’s not just switching that helps provide competitive pressure, the simple act of shopping around works too. Our surveys show that as many as 55 percent of people chose to review their electricity deal in 2016. And 31 percent reviewed, but decided not to switch.

“This week is Money Week, so it’s a good time to check where you can make savings on your electricity bill or look into whether you are on the best deal.

“It’s quick and easy to check the What’s My Number website, to identify potential savings.

“Checking your deal doesn’t mean you have to change plans, and it also isn’t always about finding the cheapest provider,” Mr Blundell says.

Since the What’s My Number campaign began there have been 2.4 million visits to the What’s My Number website(external link), and over 2.9 million completed switches.

— ends —

Notes

*This is the switch of an ICP number which can be deduced as a household.

An ICP is an Installation Control Point, which is the physical point connecting a home to the local distribution network.

A ‘switch’ occurs when an ICP changes from one electricity retailer to another.

See switching trends here:
Total switches in Canterbury region, July 2018: www.emi.ea.govt.nz/r/d1geo(external link)

Total switches by region, July 2018: www.emi.ea.govt.nz/r/2wv2j(external link)

For more information:
Jayne Cooper Woodhouse
Senior Communications Advisor
Ph: 04 460 8844
MB: 0275 651 308
Jayne.Cooper-Woodhouse@ea.govt.nz

The Electricity Authority is an independent Crown Entity with a statutory objective to promote competition in, reliable supply by, and the efficient operation of, the electricity industry for the long-term benefit of consumers.