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Why do officials not expect any of the “maybe three data centres” to put upward pressure on electricity prices?

Answered Question 33650 (2026)
Question published
Reply lodged

Asked by

Ricardo Menéndez March

List MP · Green Party

Question

  • Why do officials not expect any of the “maybe three data centres” to put upward pressure on electricity prices?

Answered by

Hon Simeon Brown

Member for Pakuranga · National Party · Minister for Energy

Answer

I am advised that data centres due to come online during 2026/27 are not expected to have a significant impact on electricity prices because projected growth in demand is expected to be accommodated within the current generation pipeline. Data centres are also signing Power Purchase Agreements with generators to back new renewable generation investments.