Power users warn unresolved affordability risks carry into 2026

Kinleith Mill closed its paper production in 2025. (Image: NZME)

Thu, 18 Dec 2025

Major electricity users say 2025 was a missed opportunity to solve the affordability pressures haunting the sector.Major Electricity Users Group (MEUG) chair John Harbord warned that a year dominated by reviews and incremental measures has left the door open to renewed political intervention in 2026.In his final update for the year, Harbord said 2025 would be remembered for unresolved tension following the electricity price shock of August 2024.A combination of an extended dry spell, a collapse in gas supply and a reduced coal stockpile sent wh...

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