This page answers some common questions about Supplyline. For general questions about the Electricity Commission, see the FAQ section of the main Commission website.
Electricity is a key input into New Zealand's economy. New Zealand’s electricity supply has a high standard of reliability, but there are times when it approaches shortage due to events such as extended dry periods. This leads to concerns about security and lack of easily accessible information. The Electricity Commission has a role in managing shortage situations; part of this role is to provide information about security. Consumers, in turn, can use this information when making risk management decisions.
Supplyline is a web-based Commission publication providing information on the outlook for security of supply. The target audience are medium- to large-sized electricity consumers in the commercial and industrial sectors. Supplyline is intended to help these consumers access – and interpret – information about the level of risk and how it may impact on them.
This website focuses on the risk of extended, widespread shortages, and will not provide information about local or short-term interruptions. If you need information on an interruption to your power supply, or you have questions about your own electricity supply or contract arrangements, contact your electricity retailer.
Supplyline is targeted at medium to large-sized electricity consumers in the commercial and industrial sectors. Typically, for this group, electricity is just one of many inputs to their business. However, at times when there is an increased risk of shortage, they may decide that they need more information. Supplyline is intended to help these consumers access – and interpret – information about the level of risk and how it may impact on them.
However, anyone is welcome to use the site and subscribe to receive email notification of updates.
The “Current Outlook” is updated quarterly during normal security of supply conditions. (Key graphs and statistics may be updated more often without notice.) When the risk level increases, the site will be updated more frequently and more detail will be provided.
An email notification is sent out whenever a significant change is made to the Current Outlook. Anyone can subscribe to receive these emails.
The Commission will not use this mailing list for any other purpose, and will not provide it to other parties.
You can unsubscribe (get yourself removed from the list) here.
If you have any questions about security of electricity supply, you can contact the Commission. Any feedback about the information on this site – and how it could be made more useful to you – would also be welcome.
If your question is about your own electricity supply or contract arrangements, you should contact your electricity retailer.