41035 (2024). Hon Dr Ayesha Verrall to the Minister for Energy

41035 (2024). Hon Dr Ayesha Verrall to the Minister for Energy: In the Minister’s departments, ministries and agencies, if any, what savings have been identified, between 27 November 2023 and 10 July 2024?

Hon Simeon Brown: As Minister of Energy, I have no responsibility for any government departments or Ministries. In respect of the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, I refer the Member to the Minister for Economic Development’s answer to written parliamentary question 41019 (2024). With regard to Crown entities under the energy portfolio, I am advised that the savings from the EECA restructure resulted in a reduction in salaries budget from $18,774,106.00 in 23-24 FY to $15,374,538.00 for 24-25 FY. This represents savings of $3,399,568.00. The EA identified the use of consultants and contractors as a key efficiency opportunity. Organisational changes have been made to ensure the use of consultants and contractors delivers value for money for its levy payers. The Authority is still finalising figures for the 23/24 financial year. The most recent forecast shows a reduction in consultant and contractor spend of 34%, when compared to the previous financial year.