Waiouru responds to power crisis

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 10, Issue 443, 14 July 1992, Page 1

Waiouru responds to power crisis

BY

JAN

SAVELL

Domestic savings are the key to Waiouru reducing its power consumption" said Capt Scott Kerr, from the Army Training Group Headquarters. Army houses all have log fires and 'chippies' so residents are making big savings by turning off their hot water and electric heating in favour of the more traditional methods. Heating and hot water in the military base are generated by coal-fired boilers. The coal also heats steamers in the Mess kitchens which are being utilized whenever possible. For the military camp power consumption is mainly for lighting and

appliances, computers being the most widespread. Steps have been taken to rationalize the use of these. "We're keeping in contact with Powerco and they say we're on target" said Capt Kerr. Should back-outs occur Army life will still go on. Diesel generators are ready to take over power generation for the hospital and provide back-up power for other essential areas. Soldiers can be fed from the self-sufficient Karacher field kitchens. In the 24-hour black-out earlier this winter gas barbecues were used in the Mess and the evening meal was served in candle-light. "Units have been asked to continue to monitor the situation. More savings can be made, especially in the larger institutions like the barracks and the messes." Measures taken include turning off nonessential appliances and lighting. The Officer's Mess is now left in darkness during the day with all lights being turned off when floors are not used between meal-times.