Feedback on cuts sought

Powerco, which supplies electricity to more than 320,000 homes and businesses in the lower and central North Island, is seeking consumer feedback on planned power cuts.

Powerco Acting Network operations manager Dean Stevenson said planned power cuts were essential for providing consumers with a modern electricity network and a high quality of supply.

‘‘Not all power cuts are alike. Many are caused by uncontrollable forces of nature, whereas planned power cuts are necessary to carry out maintenance and upgrades on our electricity network.’’

In the last financial year (to March 31, 2013), Powerco invested $104.8 million on capital expenditure across its networks and undertook $34.1m in maintenance work.

‘‘We are committed to providing a safe and reliable supply of energy to our customers.

‘‘To gain a better understanding of people’s expectations around planned power cuts we are asking them to complete an online survey.’’

Mr Stevenson said Powerco is a regulated business and the feedback would be used in discussions with the Commerce Commission about setting network performance targets.

People can complete the 10-minute survey at www.powerco.co.nz.

All entrants will go into the draw for a $3000 power credit.

Powerco is New Zealand’s second largest electricity and gas distribution utility with about 420,000 consumers connected to its networks.

Powerco’s electricity networks are in Western Bay of Plenty, Thames, Coromandel, Eastern and Southern Waikato, Taranaki, Whanganui, Rangitikei, Manawatu and the Wairarapa.

Its gas pipeline networks are in Taranaki, Hutt Valley, Porirua, Wellington, Horowhenua, Manawatu and Hawke’s Bay.