MANAGER’S REPORT

Hauraki Plains Gazette, Volume 47, Issue 2667, 8 September 1937, Page 5

MANAGER’S REPORT

THAMES VALLEY POWER BOARD —- G INCREASE OF CONSUMERS. The report of the manager, Mr R. Sprague, to the Thames Valley Electric Power Board yesterday stated that on Wednesday, August 25, two cows were electrocuted on the property of Mr Wm. Jones, Komata, during the easterly gale. The accident was caused by a broken binding wire allowing the phase to fall off the insulator, slide along the cross-arm, and make contact with the iron rail pole. The iron rails were supplied and erected by Mr Jones, and the wiring, including earth guards on each pole, was done by the board. All poles were barbed-wired.

Mr T. A. Barrett inspected the cows in company with Mr Mitchell, and his report had been forwarded to the insurance company together with Mr Jones’ claim. The local authorities officers’ award came into operation on August 1. The increase in salaries now being paid under this award amounted to £696 annually. A conference with the Thames and Te Aroha borough representatives was held at Te Aroha on August 25 in accordance with the resolution of the board at the last meeting. The total number of consumers now connected to the Board’s mains was 10,655. Thames and Te Aroha boroughs were included in this total and numbered 1176 and 740 respectively. Seventy-five lighting and heating consumers were connected during the month, also 41 electric ranges, 74 water-heaters, 76 motors on farms, of which 20 were milking motors, and seven industrial motors. There were now connected and operating 1479 electric ranges, 3479 water-heaters, 842 industrial motors, anl 5149 motors on farms, of which 2888 were milkingmotors. Sixty-nine consumers had additional lighting and heating connections made.

This had been another heavy month for new installations, especially applying to water-heaters and ranges, and the demand for new installations for all services did not show any abatement .