Low User regulations aimed to help reduce costs for low-income households who use a relatively small amount of power. In the North Island, you’re a Low User if you use less than 8,000 kWh annually at your primary residence (666 kWh a month), while in the lower parts of the South Island it’s less than 9,000 kWh per year (750 kWh a month).
The Electricity Price Review Panel found that Low User regulations were not serving their original purpose and instead causing low-income families with high electricity use greater energy hardship.
Over the next few years, the low fixed charge tariff is being removed which will mean the daily fixed charge pricing for Low User plans will increase. We regularly review our rates and will align them with the changes introduced by the regulations.
Find out more about phasing-out low rates