MEUG and our members want an affordable and reliable electricity supply supporting a productive economy.
Electricity is a key input for our members’ businesses. It enables our members to support regional communities, employ thousands of people in well paying jobs, and helps to pay for the essential services we all take for granted that are critical to a dynamic and thriving economy.
An affordable and reliable electricity market where customers believe they are paying a fair or justifiable price is essential to a productive economy.
It allows industry and businesses to produce products at a competitive price, allowing our exporters to compete internationally, grow export revenue, drive job creation, and reinvest in their businesses.
To add value to MEUG members’ management of electricity costs and risks achieving outcomes consistent with competitive markets for the long-term benefit of electricity consumers
Karen began her role as Executive Director in early 2023, following nearly 20 years in senior policy, regulatory, and advocacy roles.
Karen has a Bachelor of Science with Honours from the University of Otago, with a focus on energy management.
Before joining MEUG, Karen spent six years at the diversified energy group Clarus as Regulatory Policy Manager, leading a team that oversaw regulatory compliance, reporting and policy engagement. Karen has also worked at Local Government New Zealand, Genesis Energy, and the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA).
As Executive Director, Karen’s role at MEUG is to work with the Chair on setting and delivering a strategy and business plan to best support MEUG members.
John specialises in reputation and issues management, and stakeholder and ministerial engagement. John graduated from the University of Otago with a Master’s degree in Political Studies and a law degree.
Before joining MEUG in 2015, John was a Partner and government relations lead for Senate SHJ. John also held the title of Chief Crown Negotiator, leading the Treaty of Waitangi settlement negotiations on behalf of the Crown.
John has an exceptional understanding of the inner workings of government, having worked in the Beehive and Parliament, including as a senior advisor to the Prime Minister.
In addition to serving as the Chair of MEUG, John is a member of the New Zealand Institute of Directors and Executive Director of the New Zealand Shipping Federation.
To ensure that New Zealand has a competitive and resilient electricity network that delivers affordable electricity and supports economic growth, we are focused on the following issues.
Understand the disparity between wholesale electricity prices and cost drivers to affirm whether the market is working as it should and to retain consumer confidence.
Support Government to set a clear direction for the energy sector and to aid the transition to a low carbon economy.
Advocate for ETS settings that are predictable and consistent so that businesses can assess risks and invest appropriately.
Advocate for adequate investment to meet the needs for renewable generation and increased electricity demand and provide resilient, modern and reliable infrastructure for a productive economy.
