Energy Minister Simeon Brown has announced the scope of the Electricity Authority’s investigation into the Northland transmission tower failure on 20 June 2024, which caused significant power outages.

“What happened in Northland last week was unacceptable, with tens of thousands of consumers left without power due to poor maintenance practices,” said Brown.

“This widespread impact on families, businesses, and communities could have been avoided.”

The investigation will determine the cause of the event, review the response, and identify lessons learned, including actions taken by the grid owner and system operator.

It will also assess the communications between Transpower, lines companies, retailers, businesses, and the public.

The Electricity Authority is expected to complete its report within 12 weeks, with the Minister for Energy making it publicly available within 15 days of receipt.