The Electricity Authority's (EA) proposed pricing regime will have a hugely detrimental effect on businesses and on regional New Zealand, says New Zealand First.

'Under the proposed changes, Employers and Manufacturers Association members (EMA) will be among those who will be particularly hard hit,” says Spokesperson for Energy Fletcher Tabuteau

'In their submission to the authority, the EMA has also highlighted the fact those needing high voltage connections such as schools or hospitals may be paying an additional $22,000 per annum.

'This is just one area; businesses in regions already struggling with the downturn in the global dairy price cannot be expected to take price rises.

"It is also a disgrace that these proposed price changes would also take more out from areas such as Northland than the government provides in economic development initiatives.

'The government needs to step in and demand fair prices across the country.

'There's money from grid owner Transpower's profit last year of $194 million to do just that,” Mr Tabuteau says.

SOURCE: Office of letcher Tabuteau