Hydro-Electric Power.

Cromwell Argus, 16 August 1926, Page 5

Hydro-Electric Power.

The introduction of electric power to the district lias been such a huge success, and the service has given such satisfaction, that it is seldom discussed. If there were any complaints or dissatisfaction it would soon be voiced. However, the use of the power in many channels has now come to be regarded as part and parcel of the daily life. The public may at first have been a little sceptical regarding the many uses to which power could be applied, but these have disappeared. There was a doubt re ranges, but results are such that users will not think of the old system, and the cost is particularly reasonable. Against any idea of ranges being discarded we can say that some who have installed one are putting in another. The number in the lower part of the district is being steadily increased. In Cromwell two of the leading tea-rooms now use the electric range with marked success, and one is on the point of having a second installed. Apart from the cost, which is low, the convenience and efficiency, and numerous other requirements under the old system must be taken into account. The following particulars regarding the service have been furnished to us by the Board : 5 k.w. range, 1.E., 3 rings (this includes oven also), .-£25. Installation of range approximately, .£5. Flat rate charge of range, .£7 10s per year.

Consumption charge is at Id per unit for 230 units, all in excess of 230 arc £d eack All elements full on, on a 5 k.w. range, would cost 5d per hour in consumption at Id per unit, or 2hd an hour at id per unit. The average cost per week of all 3-ring ranges installed in Alexandra district for the past 8 months is 5s and 6s, that is including flat rate. These costs were worked out from the consumers accounts and a very fair percentage allowed for their lighting and ironing consumption. If consumers desire it the Power Board will undertake to supply them with power for their ranges for the summer months only, and will have them disconnected during winter months, when they will not be charged a flat rate while disconnected. A small charge of a few shillings will be made for disconnecting and reconnecting. Messrs Turnbull and Jones, Ltd., who arc agents for " Moffat " ranges, guarantee them for the first 12 months for any faulty workmanship in construction, provided all care is taken with elements, etc., that no foreign matter comes in contact with same.

Electric water-heating provides a very satisfactory service as e ich consumer who has it installed will verify. There are several different rates it is optional to have : —l. No meter charge and with a change-over switch with the range for £6 per year, using same when range is not needed. 2. No meter charge, no change-over switch for .£l2 per year. 3. No change over switch 4£2 10s per year ; flat rate and consumption charge as recorded by meter. 4, Change-over switch with range, no flat rate, but consumption charge only. The element for 25-galion or 30-gallon circulator, burning full on for 1 hour, will consume one'unit.

A type of heating clement for a circulator can bo rifted which will also allow the coal range-boiler to be left still connected to circulator. Prices of different water-heating appliances can be had on application, and all advice is free. The local mining venture using the power for pumping, Cornish Point Syndicate, is more than satisfied with -the cost of the service, wdiich for two months worked out at two-thirds only of the estimate. It is quite efficient, and manipulates the pump with marked success.