TLC prioritises affordability, keeps average household price increase to 7%

20 February 2026

The Lines Company (TLC) today confirmed its annual electricity distribution price changes, with the average household increase limited to 7%, following a focused effort to balance affordability with continued investment in a safe and reliable electricity network.

All electricity distribution companies are required to notify price changes by 1 March each year, with allowable revenue set by the Commerce Commission, the government regulator of the energy sector.

TLC Chief Executive Mike Fox said the company was acutely aware of cost pressures facing households and businesses.

“We know price increases are concerning, particularly at a time when many families are feeling the pressure from rising living costs,” said Fox.

“That’s why we’ve worked hard to keep our average household increase to 7%, while still making sure we can deliver a safe, reliable electricity network for our communities.”

TLC does not sell electricity. TLC builds, maintains and operates the local electricity network – the poles, lines, transformers and systems that keep homes and businesses connected. Our distribution charges for the network are included in your power bill, along with the retailer’s charge for the electricity you use. On average, TLC and Transpower charges together make up about one third of a typical power bill, while the electricity itself — supplied by your retailer — accounts for more than half.

While most households will see an increase in TLC’s charges, general customers such as businesses and dairy farms will see a slightly higher average increase of around 9%, reflecting differences in network use.

Fox said TLC’s 100% community ownership plays an important role in how the company approaches pricing.

“While we know that no-one is pleased to see their electricity bill go up, especially in the current economic climate, our 100% community ownership through the Waitomo Energy Services Customer Trust means we’ve been able to smooth what would have been extremely large price increases for this year and last over a five-year period,” he said.

As part of this approach, WESCT beneficiaries in the northern part of TLC’s network will see an increase in the annual TLC discount, rising by $200,000 to a total of $7.1 million (including GST) in the coming year.

“The TLC discount goes directly onto people’s electricity bills,” said Fox. “The next payment will be made in May, just as winter demand increases, providing timely support for eligible households.”

TLC has also reduced its off‑peak pricing tariff, meaning customers who are able to shift electricity use outside peak times may see savings, depending on their retail plan.

During the past year, TLC invested $21 million in network upgrades, renewals, maintenance and improvements to ensure customers continue to receive a safe and reliable power supply.

Supporting customers experiencing energy hardship remains a key focus of TLC’s strategy through its Making a Difference pou.

“We know some people are struggling,” said Fox. “We encourage customers to check their retail plans using tools like Powerswitch or SwitchMe, and to reach out to our customer team if they need help understanding their options.”

Price changes will come into effect from 1 April. TLC’s community team continues to run Energy Education workshops across the network area, helping customers understand how to manage and reduce energy costs.