Consumer PowerSwitch - Easy Access To Cheapest Power Deal

The new Consumer PowerSwitch information service will give consumers easy access to information about the cheapest power deal, Enterprise and Commerce Minister Max Bradford said.

The Consumers' Institute won the contract to run the service, which began today and will operate until at least 31 December 2000.

At the service launch Mr Bradford looked up what deals were available in his home city, Rotorua.

"The electricity reforms are about providing choice. However, many people don't know which electricity retailers they have to choose from in their area. This service will go a long way to equiping people with the information they need to make an informed switch to the best deal."

"Consumers will then be able to play a stronger role in keeping power prices down by forcing retailers to remain competitive," Mr Bradford said.

"Under the reforms 55 per cent or almost one million electricity consumers are paying, or can pay, lower power prices than they were paying a year ago.

"This service will make switching retailer easier and in doing so help consumers have more in the bank at the end of the week," he said.

The cost of establishing the service is $70,000 (excluding GST), $50,000 of which is being contributed by the Ministry of Commerce.

NB: there is a photo opportunity for media at 11am this morning at the Consumers' Institute, 4th floor, 39 Webb Street, Wellington

ENDS

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