FLAT RATE V. METER.

Hauraki Plains Gazette, Volume XXXX, Issue 5501, 15 November 1929, Page 4

FLAT RATE V. METER.

CHARGES FOR POWER. POWER BOARD’S EXPLANATION. The following is a copy of a letter, addressed to a Turua resident by the manager of the Thames Valley Power Board, in answer to queries regarding charges for power under the flat rate and new meter system : — “There is no reducing charge per unit under scales E, F and G.. Assuming an average production of 2201 b of butterfat per cow for the flat rate charges, just superseded, and 25 units per cows under the new meter rates, these rates show a reduction of between 8 and 9 per cent., compared with the old butterfat method of charge. If a consumer has a greater production than 2201 b butterfat per cow the new meter rates represent a still greater saving. Equality would obtain under the new and old scales at approximately 1901 b butterfat per cow.

“The above remarks apply only when the average number' of units used is 25 per cow per annum. This is the average of a number of tests in our area. In other parts of New Zealand the average generally is lower than 25 units per cow, but obviously the manner in which the shed is worked is the deciding factor. The layout of the shed and the number of hands employed are big influences. The more hands there are the quicker is the work done and the fewer are the units used. “Many other items quite obvious to the farmer will have a bearing on the matter one way or another. Butterfat Basis. “The adjustment of charge on the butterfat basis will be made on the actual butterfat produced to the date of changeover to meters, but the 50001 b for £l5 exemption will be adjusted for the portion the year actually expired. Water Heaters. “Under the new scale of charges water heaters will be on a change-over-switch or time-switch without meters. Consumers may obtain a meter fate on waterheaters if they wish it for night supply only. Night Rates. “If water-heaters are required on meter rates for night, i.e., from 9.30 p.m. to 5.30 a.m., a separate meter is installed. If night supply is required on flat rate for water-heaters, j ; e., without meter, the time-switches can be adjusted to control this. Special terms can be arranged for night supply only on the flat rate system. “There are 1,000 watts in Ik.w. “In sheds where a milking motor over 1 h.p. is in M»e, a time-switch i not required, owing to having a changeover switch controlling ’ the motor and heaters. This charge is a flat rate charge of 13s per 100 watt capacity of heating, less 10 per cent., practically the same charge as at present operating. “I trust this information will be quite clear to you, and sufficient for your purpose, but if not, I should be pleased to advise you further.”