Starting next year, electricity will no longer be cut off for people with medical addictions.

TO RNZ

Electricity Authorities intend to introduce rules that will prohibit electricity retailers from disconnecting medically dependent customers for non-payment of bills.

Government consumer protection guidelines will become mandatory in 2025, meaning retailers will have to comply.

On January 1, two key obligations will come into effect: one to protect medically dependent clients and the other to set reasonable fees.

Electricity Authority chief executive Airihi Mauika said retailers and consumers support the recommendations becoming obligations.