Powerswitch website can save consumers money - Govt

The Government is urging people to visit its Powerswitch website and make sure they aren't paying more for electricity than they need to during the winter.

"Consumers shouldn't have to switch heaters off and shiver in blankets in order to cut costs and save money on their power bills," said Consumer Affairs Minister Heather Roy.

"All it takes is a few clicks and some information from the consumer's latest power bill to see if money could be saved by switching to a new plan or power company."

Ms Roy said Powerswitch provided a free, independent, internet-based electricity cost comparison service.

"Transferring to an alternate plan, or switching power companies, is an easy way to ensure that money isn't spent unnecessarily," she said.

The website is www.powerswitch.org.nz.