An Otago University researcher says the number of those in energy hardship is likely much higher than government officials think.
Dr Kimberley O'Sullivan is an energy hardship expert in the Department of Public Health at Otago University and says the figure may be many times the 5.8 percent of homes, or 110,000, that MBIE estimates. According to the Electricity Authority, there were 534 disconnections longer than 24 hours because of non-payment as at the end of May. But just under 30,000 disconnection warnings were sitting with customers.
Earlier this year the Electricity Authority strengthened its Consumer Guidelines by making them mandatory from next year. They include rules retailers must apply before any disconnection takes place - such as the practice not allowed at all when there is a medically dependent person involved.
Dr O'Sullivan says the disconnection warnings are just the tip of the iceberg.
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