AUCKLAND, Today: New Zealanders are getting their first look at Billy, a new tool from the Electricity Authority Te Mana Hiko that helps people compare power plans and providers to better manage energy costs.
With households keeping a closer eye on spending, Billy is designed to make the energy market easier to understand.
Created by the Electricity Authority, the free comparison tool helps people check whether they are on the right plan and getting decent value for their household.
The platform uses a detailed pricing model built from New Zealand household and consumption data, allowing it to deliver more tailored comparisons based on real usage patterns and current market pricing.
People can use Billy for free by uploading a power bill or completing a quick Q&A journey. From there, Billy pulls together cheaper plan options from power companies around the country, covering the majority of New Zealand households, so most users should see relevant offers.
Sarah Gillies, Chief Executive, Electricity Authority Te Mana Hiko, says, “Electricity is a lifeline, not a luxury. It warms our homes, powers our lives and connects us to opportunity.
“But for too many people, it’s a source of stress. Heading into winter, many households will face an increase to their power bill. It’s more important than ever to check whether your plan is delivering good value for your household, and whether you could save money with a better deal.”
“Electricity is a lifeline, not a luxury.” – Sarah Gillies, Chief Executive, Electricity Authority Te Mana Hiko
Daylight has handled Billy’s product strategy, design, engineering, brand development and the upcoming launch campaign. The platform has been built to evolve, with room for new features as the market changes and new consumer needs emerge.
Lee Lowndes, CEO of Daylight, said the team set out to create more than just a comparison tool. “When household bills are constantly rising, it can feel pretty disempowering. With Billy, we have taken a holistic approach, not only enabling Kiwi to take action through cost comparison, but with educational resources too. Now people have all the tools they need to put their energy in the right place.”
Billy has been developed as a standalone consumer brand, with its name taken directly from the power bills it is designed to help people tackle.
The brand is represented by a pair of expressive eyes that guide users through the experience, encouraging them to take a closer look at their options.
Paired with a contemporary design system, Billy is positioned as a friendly, supportive and approachable companion for everyday New Zealanders.
Following the launch of billy.govt.nz, a national awareness campaign will roll out in early April across AV, out-of-home and social.
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