The Electricity Retailers’ Association of New Zealand (ERANZ) has launched a new online platform designed to assist consumers who are experiencing difficulties in paying their electricity bills.
Having trouble paying your power bill? online portal offers a variety of options for consumers facing challenges in paying their electricity bills. This resource includes assistance from both electricity providers and government or community organisations.
Key features of the portal include various support options such as the ERANZ-funded initiative, wherein a coach visits customers to create a personalised action plan with their power company.
The portal also provides details about the ERANZ Power Credits Scheme, which offers eligible customers lump-sum credits of $110, potentially twice a year, to help reduce financial adversity.
Additional suggestions include guiding customers to the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority’s Warmer Kiwi Homes grant and educating renters about their rights under the Healthy Homes Standards.
“We think it’s important to share information about the support consumers can access. We’re hoping it will also be useful for organisations offering financial advice to people in their communities, particularly those experiencing energy hardship,” ERANZ chief executive Bridget Abernethy said.
“The first thing households should do if they are having difficulties paying their power bill is call their retailer. Electricity retailers have teams and programmes specifically designed to help customers in hardship find more affordable ways to pay.”
“In addition, we’re pleased to offer clear information to consumers about other help available.”
Jessica Walker, the acting head of research and advocacy at Consumer NZ, stated that it is essential to provide easily understandable information for those who are struggling.
Walker described the energy hardship in the country as a “grim reality for many households.”
“It’s been signalled that many households could see double-digit price increases this year, and as a result, we expect more and more New Zealanders to have trouble staying warm and well this winter,” she added.
Meanwhile, ERANZ chief executive Abernethy said, “Our members are very conscious that rising electricity prices will have an impact on consumers, and this is just one of the many ways in which they can help.”