Regional reps vie for electricity trust spots

Half of Network Tasman’s trustee positions are up for grabs this August and three of the region’s elected members, including a mayor, are throwing their hats into the ring.

The lines company distributes electricity to 43,000 consumer connections across the Nelson Tasman region, excluding the sections of Nelson served by Nelson Electricity.

Wholly owned by its consumers, the Network Tasman Trust holds all the shares of the company.

Five of its six trustees are elected by consumers, while the three largest consumers appoint the sixth.

Trustees provide governance oversight of the company, appoint its directors, and distribute grants to individuals and organisations within Network Tasman’s distribution area.

Trustees are paid $16,500 per annum, or $33,000 if they're the chair.

Nelson Mayor Nick Smith is one of six candidates vying for one of the three open spots on the Network Tasman Trust this August.

He says he was interested in the importance of the region’s electricity infrastructure and pursuing efficiencies in infrastructure works between public bodies, like councils and Network Tasman.

With a background in engineering, he thought the “big challenge” for the lines company was to make progress on projects like expanding electric vehicle chargers while maintaining its “very strong track record” of keeping prices affordable.

Network Tasman has some of the lowest line charges in the country and has delivered over $300 million in discounts and dividends to consumers since 1994.

When asked if would be able to take on the role of trustee while being mayor, Smith said he has previously juggled two ministerial portfolios while being Nelson’s MP.

“I thrive on hard work.”

Tasman’s deputy mayor, Stuart Bryant was also running.

His priority would be to ensure that consumers, particularly those in rural areas, get a “fair deal” on power, the reliability of the supply, and future capacity.

A councillor for 25 years, and a farmer, Stuart says he understands the importance of “bringing a rural voice to the table”.

“Electricity distribution needs to meet the growing needs of our rural communities and support the increasing needs of electricity generation throughout the Nelson Tasman region.”

Tasman District councillor Glen Daikee made the third person currently sitting on a local council to be running for a trustee position.

He says times are “tough” for people.

“I want to see the line charges stay affordable and make sure that people keep getting that rebate in their energy payment.”

Two incumbent trustees are running to reclaim their roles.

Judene Edgar has been a trustee for the past six years and has served as a councillor in both the Nelson City and Tasman District Councils for a total of 12 years.

She says the Network Tasman Trust required experienced trustees who were committed to delivering for the community, ensuring the network is well-maintained, incorporating new technology, and supporting decarbonisation.

“As well as a keen interest in sustainability and meeting the needs of current and future generations, I’m also interested in how artificial intelligence can help predict supply and demand patterns, and increased reliability and security.”

Patrick Adamson has also served on the trust for six years and was previously the trust secretary for 15 years.

He placed a high importance on ensuring that Network Tasman remained locally owned and retained low line charges while maintaining a reliable energy supply.

“I also have a keen interest in the community aspect of the trust and what it can do to support sports clubs, various community groups, and organisations.”

Rounding out the six candidates was former Wakefield School principal Peter Verstappen.

He has worked and lived for much of his life in rural areas and so he says he can bring a rural perspective to the trust.

“I know the value of strong, connected, well-functioning rural communities, and also how vulnerable these communities can be when services and vital infrastructure are lacking or not up to scratch.”

As a previous recipient of funding from the trust, Peter adds that he knows “firsthand the good” it does in the community.

Voter packs and more information about the candidates will be sent to consumers on Thursday. Voting will close at noon on Thursday 22 August.