Introduction

This project was to establish a single, joint gas and electricity, consumer complaints scheme that satisfies the requirements defined jointly by the regulatory bodies (Electricity Commission and Gas Industry Co) and that has coverage of all relevant stakeholders. Further objectives are to establish the scheme in accordance with the policy set out in the 2008 Electricity GPS and the 2008 Gas GPS and to ensure that the scheme is satisfactory to both of the regulatory bodies. The preferred approach was to establish an industry-led (approved) scheme.

Summary of Status

In November 2009 Gas Industry Co recommended to the Associate Minister of Energy and Resources that the Electricity and Gas Complaints Commissioner scheme (EGCC) be approved under the Gas Act 1992. In December the Associate Minister confirmed her approval and the Electricity Commission made a similar decision under the Electricity Act. Membership of the approved scheme became mandatory from 1 April 2010. Gas Industry Co's residual oversight functions of the scheme are expected to transfer to the Ministry of Consumer affairs on 1 October 2010.

Contact Details
Greig Hinds
Tel: 04 472 1800
Greig [dot] Hindsgasindustry [dot] co [dot] nz