Record number of power switches in 2013

Electricity Authority reports a record number of power switches in 2013

The number of Kiwis shopping around for a better power deal continues to rise, with an 11 per cent increase in recorded switches in 2013, compared with 2012.

There were a total of 396,376 completed switches in 2013, compared with 356,881 in 2012.

“It is great to see so many Kiwis exercising their choice to switch electricity suppliers and realising the cost savings and other benefits they can get from shopping around,” Electricity Authority Chief Executive Carl Hansen says.

“We’d encourage everyone to use the What’s My Number online tool to check what deals are available. Even if you have already switched, it’s important to keep checking your options regularly.”

What’s My Number spokesperson, Judy Bailey, says finding out if you’re getting the best deal for your power is quick and easy.

“The What’s My Number online tool is simple to use, it only takes a couple of minutes – if you can potentially save money, why not check?” she says. “As winter begins to bite, now is a really good time to look at your provider. We all have different needs – depending on our lifestyle and where we live. What’s My Number gives us an easy way to find out whether we’re getting the best possible deal.”

The average annual household saving in 2013 was $155, but checking your power deal doesn’t always have to be about how much money you could save.

“It’s also about looking into different providers which might offer different deals or incentives. Some might be a better fit for you, because they offer reward points, while others may check your meter online instead of coming to your house. It’s all about finding the best fit for you.”

Carl Hansen adds, “Shopping around for a better power deal is all part of maintaining a competitive market. Retailers are offering different deals to attract different customers, making checking very worthwhile for all households.

“Checking also doesn’t have to mean switching – we are seeing more retailers offering discounts as an incentive to stay with an existing supplier. The key is having informed customers with the ability to choose a deal that best suits their needs.
“We’ve heard reports that residential consumers are being offered between $80 and $300 per year in discounts, which effectively gives them a price reduction ranging from 3.7% to 13.8% for an average customer.”

What’s My Number is run by the Electricity Authority in partnership with Consumer NZ, putting choice in consumers’ hands by helping them to shop around. To find out if you’re getting the best deal for your power, visit www.whatsmynumber.org.nz and don’t forget to check!

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