Changes to the electricity sector are required
 
The  Domestic Energy Users Network (DEUN) would welcome any changes to the electricity sector which would  lead to price reductions for domestic consumers.
 
 "It has been obvious for some time that industrial and larger commercial users have been able to negotiate substantial discounts in their electricity bills, while householders have had to make do with temporary gains through switching retailers, if they can", says Molly Melhuish, spokesperson for the network. "It is also clear that retailers are able to raise prices even when wholesale prices are suppressed through over-supply. Ordinary New Zealanders have had enough of high electricity bills, cold houses, sick children and insufficient funds for other necessities. Small businesses would no doubt welcome some relief from high energy bills too".

 
DEUN notes that householders are becoming more proactive about their energy use. "We are seeing an increasing interest in renewables, particularly small scale photovoltaics, an ongoing interest in energy efficient housing, efficient heating  and smart appliances deigned to use electricity at off peak times. New Zealand is 
fortunate in having a relative abundance of energy, much of it from renewable sources. It is time to question whether the sector can do better in delivering the benefits of our energy resources for all New Zealanders."

ENDS

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