Press Release - Electricity Authority launches free power comparison and switching site ‘Billy’.
The Electricity Authority has finally launched its power comparison site Billy, going head-to-head with PowerCompare and Consumer's Powerswitch, which it previously supported.
Here at NZ Compare we understand the importance of Kiwis comparing and switching provider regularly to ensure they are on the best possible deal for their household. and so we welcome another addition to the comparison space in NZ. The more Kiwis comparing power plans and their other bills, like broadband and mobile the better. Each comparison site does different things for users and so find the one that is best for you.
We like the simplicity of Power Compare, but as the saying goes, a rising tide raises all ships so the more conversations we are having about bill comparison the better!
We have copied below the Press Release from The Electricity Authority, released on 26th March 2026.
Visit Power CompareNew Zealanders can now compare and switch power plans with confidence using Billy, the new, free, publicly-owned comparison and switching site launched today by the Electricity Authority Te Mana Hiko (the Authority). Named as a nod to the power ‘bill’, Billy will make it easier for households to take control of their power costs.
“Billy gives people a simple way to check their plan and make sure they’re getting the best deal for them,” says Authority Chief Executive Sarah Gillies. “As Billy says, ‘there’s power in checking’. We want people to be confident they’re getting good value for their power by providing clarity and choice.”
Gillies says Billy builds on other changes the Authority has made to strengthen competition and empower consumers with better bills and clearer information.
“Electricity is a lifeline not a luxury. It warms our homes, powers our lives and connects us to opportunity. But for too many people, it’s a source of stress. Heading into winter, many households will face an increase to their power bill. It’s more important than ever to check whether your plan is delivering good value for your household, and whether you could save money with a better deal.”
Owned and operated by the Authority, the interactive site uses real data from 27,000 Kiwi households to model how people use power and create personalised comparisons. The Authority does not receive commissions or promote any particular power company. Billy simply shows how different plans could work for each household.
“Electricity is one of the biggest regular costs for most New Zealanders,” says Gillies. “Power bills rose by an average of about 10% in the first half of last year – around $17 per month for the average home.”
Research commissioned by the Authority in 2024 highlights why tools like Billy are needed. Of the households surveyed, half of those who switched power companies did so to save money. Among those who hadn’t switched, the main barriers were:
1. Uncertainty whether savings would be real (50%)
2. Feeling the benefit might not be worth the hassle (37%)
3. Believing switching would be difficult (25%).
Billy makes it easy to see what you could save by either uploading a recent power bill, or answering a few simple questions. Within seconds, you will receive personalised comparisons based on your electricity use and guided through a simple process if you choose to switch.
“The Authority has no commercial interest in whether someone switches. For many people, the outcome may simply be reassurance that their current plan is working well.”
Gillies says trusted information makes a big difference. “Billy will help people better understand their options and make informed choices.”
Minister for Energy Simon Watts says making energy affordable is a top priority for the Government.
“Helping you save money is our priority. Billy is a simple tool that takes the guesswork out of power bills, making sure you’re on the best plan so you can keep more in your pocket without the hassle.”Electricity Authority Press Release
Good luck to Billy and hopefully it will contribute to growing the comparison culture in NZ. If you are looking to change power provider or compare your bill, you can do so right here too :-) Click below to compare Power Plans.