AUCKLAND’S DILEMMA

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume 79, 18 April 1944, Page 4

AUCKLAND’S DILEMMA

SAVING OF ELECTRIC POWER Auckland. April 17. The impossibility of restricting the consumption of electric power in the Auckland district to the extent required in order to comply with the instructions for the conservation of power in the North Island issued by the electricity controller, Mr Kissel, was' emphasised at a meeting of the Auckland Electric Power Board. A report on the subject was received from the general manager, Mr Bartley, who outlined several methods by which some reduction could be effected. Even if the maximum saving was achieved the board would still be far in advance of its quota, he said. Members were agreed that a great saving could be achieved by more rigid control of radio stations. The reduction would have to be made by closing down stations for certain hours, because the majority of householders would not voluntarily switch off their radios for long periods. It was ridiculous that the board was expected to reduce consumption and at the same time supply power to new State houses and to any industry which was started for war purposes, said the chairman, Mr S. J. Harbutt. It was resolved to advise the controller that the board could not accept the quota of a 3 per cent, increase as in the opinion of members it would be impossible to effect the restrictions and at the same time comply with the electricity control order.—P.A.