Chch 3rd quarter 2011 energy use: decreasing quake impacts

Christchurch third quarter 2011 energy use shows decreasing earthquake impacts

Christchurch energy data continues to show impacts from the February earthquake. The Christchurch Agency for Energy (CAfE) has today released third quarter 2011 (July to September) energy use data which is available at http://www.cafe.gen.nz/media-energy-data.
Graphs at http://www.cafe.gen.nz/EarthquakeImpact

CAfE CEO Merv Altments says, "February's earthquake impacts, seen in our initial April to June energy data release, continue for the July to September period, with lower use of electricity and petrol but higher diesel use."

"Compared to the corresponding period in 2010, total Christchurch energy use is down 4.3% for the quarter with electricity use down by 7.4%, petrol consumption down by 6% and diesel use up by 8.5%. However it should be noted that electricity use was influenced by several snow events in August. Orion estimates that underlying electricity volumes recovered to approximately 10% below pre-quake expectations."

Christchurch is still using more non-renewable energy than renewable energy and this presents challenges for our city as the rebuilding progresses. CAfE is working on assisting businesses to use energy more efficiently and take greater advantage of sustainable energy. The real challenge is in Christchurch's use of petrol and diesel, which in time may be alleviated by use of alternately fuelled vehicles, increased use of cycles as a mode of transport, greater use of public transport and changes in transport patterns," says Mr Altments.

At the time of publication detailed gas data was not yet available. This component of the database for this quarter is therefore an estimate only at this stage. Once the data is available the database will be updated. It is expected that this adjustment will be minor.

For further information visit www.cafe.gen.nz.

ENDS

© Scoop Media