ELECTRICITY SHORTAGE

Waikato Times, Volume 128, Issue 21357, 27 February 1941, Page 2

ELECTRICITY SHORTAGE

THIS COMING WINTER POSITION SERIOUS IN NORTH ISLAND (Spelal to Times) CAMBRIDGE, Thursday The Power Boards’ Association wrote to the Cambridge Electrie Power Board last night referring to a probable shortage of electricity supplies In the North Island this corning winter. It was considered that If all steam plants In the North Island were utilised the position could probably be met without rationing of supplies. The continuation of the daylight saving scheme would help matters. A report from a deputation, representing North island boards, to the Government, was read to tbe meeting. It staled that the association bad been watching carefully the position and it was recognised there might he a grave shortage during the coming winter. The greatest possible use or the steam plants in Auckland and elsewhere was urged and the report dealt at length with coal supplies. Today they had only 10,000 tons of coal at dumps near the King’s Wharr plant, whereas at least 30,000 tons would be necessary, and regular supplies would have to be made available. Serious Position The chairman, Mr Mervyn Wells, said the position was a serious one, especially Tor them. They had a “little business” going well and rationing would cut down their revenue, while their overhead had to go on. Mr Wells said he had been advised by Mr Kissil that tbe position was much more serious than 12 months ago and said that boards should use every endeavour to get consumers to be as economical with supply as possible. Mr Wells said Mr Kissil had indicated that his opinions were not given to scare consumers, but to get consumers and supply authorities to be careful of supply. The Power Boards’ Association rurther wrote advising or a proposed meeting of electricity supply authorities in the North Island to discuss the probable power supply restrictions. It was decided that the chairman and Mr Garland represent the board at the meeting when It is called.