MEUG is working with the Framework participants as an Independent Consumer and Advisory member.

MEUG executive director Karen Boyes says, “The Framework acknowledges the essential need to provide reliable and affordable electricity at internationally competitive prices for a productive and growing economy.

As we experienced last winter, a period of transitioning away from fossil fuels to a largely renewable system means volatility and higher prices in the wholesale market, and MEUG believes a collaborative approach is critical in helping guide New Zealand through this change.”

The Framework has several stated key objectives including accelerating renewables development and ensuring electricity is affordable.

Boyes says, “MEUG welcomes the opportunity to provide the perspectives of large energy consumers. It is essential that the Framework applies a consumer-centric lens to all its work, supporting regional employers and businesses across the country to prosper during the energy transition.”

MEUG also notes that the Framework aims to encourage the right energy and capacity mix, including maintaining gas supply.

“The Framework’s ambitions and direction are sound, and we look forward to it complementing the Government’s actions already underway with the Electricity Authority and Commerce Commission’s Energy Competition Taskforce and the Government’s review of the performance of electricity markets” says Boyes.