Power companies are being put on the spot as the Electricity Authority demands answers to surging prices.  

The average household is facing an 8% jump in their power bill this year, matching last year's rise.  

That's alongside the big four gentailers lifting their profits 42% in just six months. 

Major Electricity Users' Group Executive Director Karen Boyes told Ryan Bridge higher prices pressure all New Zealanders.   

She says they've told the authority we need to also make sure businesses are scrutinising their tariffs. 

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