Credit to Mercury Energy

Monday, 2 July 2001, 3:59 pm
Press Release: Business New Zealand

Media release 2 July 2001

Mercury Energy's plan to credit customers who save power is commendable and should be copied by other power companies, says Business NZ.

Business NZ Chief Executive Simon Carlaw says small businesses would be hard hit if retail prices were not kept under control or if shortages led to 'brown outs'.

"Early action by power companies, helping domestic and small business customers to save power now before a crisis situation develops is responsible.

"The current situation is not simply about lake levels - it is more complex, involving price signals not working optimally, and problems with distribution and ownership. But it is a situation that can be helped by restraint in power use."

Mr Carlaw said he would like to see the incentive scheme extended to larger businesses and beyond the winter period, and he hoped other retailers would follow Mercury's lead.

Contact Simon Carlaw 04 4966555 (work)

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