Election issues: Turangi’s power prices
The price of power in Turangi has residents calling foul in Turangi to the high price of power and The Lines Company’s peak demand pricing scheme. The Taupo Times asked the two mayoral candidates, David Trewavas and Rosanne Jollands, to weigh in on the situation.
‘‘As mayor I feel for the people and businesses of Turangi,’’ he said.
‘‘The Lines Company methodology just does not seem fair. I have, and will, continue to advocate to Central Government and the Lines Company on this.’’
Trewavas recently wrote to the Electricity Authority of New Zealand
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to request an opportunity to make representations on behalf of ratepayers at a proposed market performance investigation.
‘‘The Lines Company pricing methodology is a major issue and impediment to all our ratepayers, residents, businesses and the economic growth of our district,’’ he said.
‘‘This issue has a long history and I wish to see a resolution which does not continue to hinder the future development of Turangi, Mangakino & Southern Lake Settlements.
‘‘We must work as a team to get this matter sorted once and for all.’’
‘‘The Lines Company’s (TLC) situation in Turangi is untenable,’’ she said.
‘‘Whilst council does not have any authority in this area it is up to council, particularly the Mayor, to show leadership.
‘‘My experience in governance and managing difficult situations, along with time spent working in the energy sector, gives me unique insight into this situation that can benefit residents.’’
Jollands said if she is elected she would act as a mediator and advocate for the people of Turangi and aims to establish a peer review committee that both residents and TLC would be happy to engage with.
‘‘TLC Needs to be challenged to ensure they are meeting the aims of their Consumer Trust,’’ she said. ‘‘They may not be breaking any laws but they would make everyone’s lives easier by finding a way to apportioning the lines costs.’’