Election 2026: Green Party unveils $980m plan for new public energy company Kiwipower
The New Zealand Green Party has proposed a $980 million plan to create 'Kiwipower,' a state-owned electricity company aimed at lowering power bills and increasing renewable energy. The policy includes funding for solar installations and community-owned energy projects, financed by a proposed tax on the wealthy.
Why it matters
This policy proposal represents a significant shift in energy market strategy and election-year economic planning in New Zealand.
The Green Party has unveiled plans for a new publicly owned electricity company, with a proposed $980 million four-year appropriation, as part of an election policy aimed at cutting power bills and expanding renewable energy.
The party launched its energy policy at Dunedin’s Gasworks Museum today, with co-leader Chlöe Swarbrick announcing plans to establish Kiwipower, a publicly owned Crown entity that would invest in renewable generation and electricity security.
The party says the $980m appropriation would be funded through its proposed tax on the super-rich.
“The Greens will lower bills, cut emissions and put power back in the hands of New Zealanders,” Swarbrick said.
“That means warmer Kiwi homes, community-owned power, solar on rooftops and a new generation company, designed to solve our dry-year problem, owned by New Zealanders: Kiwipower.”
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in