Minister announces appointments to Electricity Authority

Energy and Resources Minister Judith Collins has today announced the appointment of two new members to the Electricity Authority.

The Electricity Authority is an independent Crown entity established in November 2010. 

It is responsible for governance and regulation of the electricity market and its objective is to promote competition, reliable supply, and the efficient operation of the electricity sector for the long term benefit of consumers.

Allan Dawson and Sandra Gamble have been appointed for terms of five years each commencing 18 April.

“Both Allan and Sandra have held director, chair and executive positions and will be excellent additions to the Electricity Authority.

“Allan brings extensive knowledge of the New Zealand electricity market as well as understanding of the global energy environment and its impact here. Sandra brings significant experience of working within the energy and water sectors and has insight into the critical issues facing the New Zealand industry.”

Ms Collins says the Authority will benefit from having its vacant board position filled, with its substantial work programme progressing steadily. 

There will now be six members of the Authority, with the others being Dr Brent Layton (Chair), David Bull, Susan Paterson and Hon Roger Sowry.

Background information on appointees:

Allan Dawson

Allan Dawson is the current Customer Manager for New Zealand Trade and Enterprise. He was formerly the Chief Executive for the Independent Market Operator in Western Australia, and the Energy Market Company in Singapore, and worked on the development of New Zealand electricity industry rules and arrangements in the 1990s. He has chaired the Association of Power Exchanges, and two bodies in Western Australia: the Market Advisory Committee for the Wholesale Electricity Market and the Gas Advisory Board. He brings strong governance, leadership, communication and relationship management skills, and experience in roles that directly interface with energy regulators.

Sandra Gamble

Sandra Gamble is currently a non-executive director, with roles as an Independent Advisor to the Audit and Risk Committee at Sydney Metro, and Director of the Woodville Alliance, as well as Chair of its Audit and Risk Committee. She was formerly the General Manager for Business Strategy and Resilience for the Sydney Water Corporation, where she held various committee Chair and Executive Convenor positions, and a director of Save the Children Australia. She is an electrical engineer with significant experience working in the energy and water sectors, and brings strong leadership, communication and relationship management skills.