Customers will be paid a weekly bonus in bid to keep electricity retailers in check

Mighty River Power is lifting its pre-tax earnings forecast by up to 7.5 per cent as it sees the benefits of $1 billion invested in new geothermal power stations.

A record number of NZ households switched electricity providers in January.

A haggling war has erupted in Auckland's electricity market as retailers chase customers for long-term commitment.

Overseas institutions will be keen on any partial float of the state owned power companies, says AMP Capital.

The Govt's case for selling down some asset stakes sits on a three-legged stool. On examination it is not particularly sturdy.

Two more power providers are putting up prices, with some customers facing an 8 per cent rise.

Govt plans to partially sell some state assets, including power companies, could free up to $10bn, but critics say the move will lead to higher electricity prices and put too much control of strategic assets in foreign hands.