Not for the first time Mr Prince has written to media on this topic using his own interpretation of data intended to generalise consumption data and pricing statistics covering multiple regions. In response to similar claims by one political party several months back, Treasury did an excellent job of correcting that and explaining how the data should be interpreted.

Duncan is both correct and incorrect. Pricing 'does not apply to everyone regardless of their usage”, which is why there are a plethora of pricing plans and it is important that consumers ensure they are on the right option for them. TrustPower also has pricing plans that are not reflected in the comparison he uses, and the majority of our customers are on those. His 'average of 24% more expensive” is not only wrong, but simply ridiculous.

I am happy to assist Mr Prince and Mr Evan understand these matters better if they care to contact me, but unfortunately it is simply not possible to do so in response to letters to the media.

On a positive note Richard and Duncan provide living, breathing, albeit still apparently unhappy, evidence that the competitive market is alive and well, and consumers do have choices and are free to make those choices if they believe they are to their advantage.

Graeme Purches
Community Relations Manager, Trustpower Ltd.