The Green Party has called on the Government to force state-owned power companies to cap electricity price increases at the inflation rate, citing a dramatic rise in households unable to afford heating. Government data shows nearly 200,000 households couldn't afford to heat their homes last year, a significant increase from 134,000 the year prior, prompting Green Party co-leader Chlöe Swarbrick to demand urgent action before winter.

The party's proposal targets the three major power companies where the Government holds a 51% controlling stake - Meridian, Genesis and Mercury. Green Party energy spokesperson Scott Willis argues the policy tools already exist, with ministers able to write to company boards requiring them to scale up energy hardship programmes and prevent disconnections for non-payment.

The Greens' comprehensive energy affordability package also includes establishing a $7 million low-interest loan scheme for household energy upgrades like solar panels, restoring funding for the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority, and ensuring no household has their power cut off solely due to inability to pay bills.