Expert dismisses blackout threats

An energy analyst and consumer advocate is dismissing threats of possible power blackouts in the North Island.

A Transpower report shows a section of the Cook Strait cable is so degraded it could lead to an explosion, releasing a toxic mercury cloud and causing huge power outages. Insurance companies are refusing to insure the section of cable so Transpower has closed it down.

Molly Melhuish from the group Public Power Campaign says the industry will spend money preventing the problem, but not fixing it. She says it is more likely power will be put in reserve in case another piece of equipment goes down and she believes that will push up power prices.

Ms Melhuish claims South Island power companies have admitted they want to upgrade the line, but do not want to pay for it.

- NEWSTALK ZB