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Story: Energy supply and use

Electricity consumption and use

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Like other major fuel sources, electricity has been consumed in ever increasing amounts over the 20th century. A rising population, the availability of appliances and an often abundant supply have all contributed to rising consumption. Residential use of electricity is significant, absorbing 33% of supply in 2007.

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Te Ara - The Encyclopedia of New Zealand

Source: Ministry of Economic Development; New Zealand official yearbook, 1990

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How to cite this page

Megan Cook, Energy supply and use – Electricity, late 19th to mid-20th century, Te Ara – the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, https://teara.govt.nz/en/graph/21441/electricity-consumption-and-use (accessed 4 June 2026).

Story by Megan Cook, published 12 April 2010.