Major gas users are looking to the Government for help, with many struggling with high prices.
A survey by energy management company Optima and Business NZ reveals gas prices have risen by more than 100% on average in the past five years.
Nearly half of industrial and commercial users have had to make cuts as a result.
Resources Minister Shane Jones is seeking advice whether rationing gas supplies is possible.
Major Gas Users Group spokesperson Len Houwers told Andrew Dickens Jones has proposed a triage-like system.
He says Jones is exploring reserving gas for industrial users instead of electricity companies.
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