The Government isn't giving a firm figure on what'll be paid to build a liquefied natural gas import facility in Taranaki.

It's aiming to sign a contract by mid-year.

It says it'll save the country about $265 million a year - about $50 dollars per household - and protect about 2000 jobs. 

An electricity levy of $2-$4 per megawatt-hour will fund the infrastructure.

Energy Minister Simon Watts says limited gas supply contributed to the recent increase in energy crisis and the Government needs to establish a new supply.

"That'll take the risk and put certainty back in to ensure we do have gas in a dry year, and with that, that provides benefits through to the broader country." 

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