Asking your power company just one question could save you money on your power bills - and we've created a way to do it in just a couple of minutes.
One of the fastest and easiest ways to save on your power bills is to head to Powerswitch. Powerswitch compares thousands of plans across different retailers and helps you switch to a retailer that’s better for you.
But if you don’t want to switch, there is another way you may be able to save money with your current electricity retailer. It involves asking a simple question: ‘Am I on the best plan?’
Your electricity retailer must tell you if it has a plan that would be better for you. You just need to ask.
New protections for electricity users
Electricity users in New Zealand now have protections under the Consumer Care Obligations (CCOs). The CCOs cover things like how and when your electricity retailer should communicate with you and support you if you need help. They also require retailers to give you support and advice any time you ask for it, not just if you are struggling.
The CCOs are mandatory, which means that electricity retailers must comply with them. They require electricity retailers to tell their customers about any other plans they offer that could be better for them.
We think this information could benefit many New Zealanders. The catch is that customers must ask for the information – retailers needn’t proactively provide it.
There are two occasions when an electricity retailer must voluntarily tell a customer about the plans it offers.
When you sign up with an electricity retailer, it must tell you about plans that are relevant to you, so you can make the best possible choice.
If your electricity retailer knows you are finding it hard to pay your bill, it must tell you about other plans it offers that could be more suitable for you.
So, here’s the kicker. Unless you’re joining a new electricity retailer, or your existing retailer knows that you’re struggling to pay your bills, then you could be stuck paying more for your power than you need to.
That’s why Consumer has created a template to help people ask: 'Am I on the best plan?’ We’ve also made it easy to find the contact details for electricity retailers.
Ask the question and let us know how you get on by emailing us at [email protected]
How to ask if you're on the best power plan
Use this email template to ask your electricity retailer if you're on the best plan.
Kia ora,
I have an electricity account with you. My details are:
Name:
Address:
Account number:
Please share information about my power usage and what plans you have that would be suitable and better for me.
Ngā mihi
Are you paying too much for power?
We'll help you compare and find the best electricity and gas plan. Check now to see if you’re getting the best deal.
