National wants Transpower's ownership sorted out

National wants the Government to step in and sort out the debate surrounding the ownership of Transpower.

The Commerce Commission is planning to take control of the national grid owner, claiming it will have long term benefits for customers. It is only the second time the commission has taken such action. The first was with the Unison power company in Hawkes Bay.

Energy Minister David Parker is distancing himself from the debate, saying the commission is merely exercising its duty, but National's state Owned Enterprise spokeswoman, Katherine Rich, said today the Government needs to involve itself, given the uncertainty the move has caused.

Meanwhile, major power users are praising the commission's decision.

Terrence Currie of the Major Electricity Users Group today said it shows the Commission is taking a healthy interest in the energy sector. He said many consumers feel the changes over the last decade or so have been at their expense.

- NEWSTALK ZB