Government Can't Downplay Energy Crisis
In the wake of this morning’s announcement that Meridian Energy's Christchurch customers will be hit by a 10 per cent
price hike in September, New Zealand First energy spokesperson Peter Brown is calling for longer-term solutions to the
country’s growing electricity crisis.
“Electricity supply is a critical issue. We can't just sit around waiting for Aqua, or waiting to find another
significant gas field,” said Mr Brown.
“Nearly five years after promising to fix the problems in this industry, the Government is still trying to shrug off
concerns about security of electricity supply.
“The projections on New Zealand's energy needs for the next 20 years made last October by the Ministry of Economic
Development makes it clear that the current situation cannot be sustained.
“The electricity industry is suffering from chronic under-investment and a lack of direction, and is badly in need of
major longer-term solutions. The aim must be to provide electricity for all at the flick of a switch and at reasonable
modest price.
“Until the Government is willing to stop driving the energy debate from the sideline, let the Cabinet ministers have
cold showers. Perhaps that might spur them into action,” Mr Brown concluded.