New Zealand Green Party unveils KiwiPower public energy entity

New Zealand Green Party co‑leaders Chlöe Swarbrick and Marama Davidson launched a comprehensive energy policy at the Dunedin Gasworks Museum. The plan proposes the creation of a publicly‑owned Crown entity, KiwiPower, funded with $980 million from a proposed “super‑rich tax” over four years (including $100 million a year for operating costs and $142 million a year for new renewable investment). KiwiPower will aim to lower household electricity bills, increase renewable generation, and provide zero‑interest loans for solar panels and batteries, while legalising plug‑in solar for renters.

The policy also expands the Warmer Kiwi Homes programme, allocates $200 million for community‑owned renewable projects, earmarks $80 million for renewable energy in Māori housing, and targets solar installation on over half of public homes within four years. Greens cite that 200,000 New Zealand households cannot afford heating and that four major power companies control more than 85 % of the market, driving high bills and profits. The party argues that the publicly‑owned entity will secure affordable, clean power, address the “dry‑year” supply issue, and avoid costly LNG projects.