Manukau City Council has reduced its electricity bill by $450,000 due to an energy conservation programme initiated last year. More savings are expected over the coming year, but not to the same extent as over the previous 12 months.

The biggest single source of savings was negotiation of new electricity and gas supply contracts at very competitive tariffs.

But there have also been substantial savings from energy conservation following an energy audit of major Council facilities. These audits showed up room for improvement. As a result of changes made since then, there has been a fall in power usage and in running costs due to a variety of measures. This includes changing the lighting of the Civic Centre building.

For example, reflectors inserted in light fittings produced a 50 per cent reduction in energy use. As a result of these modifications, the building uses 40 kilowatts per hour less than previously.

Re-examining the operations of the Council’s swimming pools has also paid off.

Installation of lower capacity transformers at Lloyd Elsmore swimming pool, Allan Brewster Centre and Clendon Community Centre has resulted in a

significant drop in line charges.

Other changes made in pool operations added to the overall savings, including changing controls on automated water dumping.

City Manager Colin Dale said he was delighted that the power conservation moves have paid off so handsomely, and will continue to cut the Council’s operating costs.

“It is remarkable how small changes can have such a big return. Changing the lighting fittings and installing reflectors in the Civic Centre has led to less power being used, and reduced air conditioning and maintenance costs.

“The Council’s also made savings in other areas over the past year, including $170,000 from contracting out parks maintenance. Staff are aware of the need to cut costs where possible and to restrain expenditure. I am determined that reductions in energy bills will continue.”

ENDS

Media Contact:
Gabrielle Hinton
Media Liaison Support Officer
Ph: 09 2637100 x 8650
Fax: 09 2625759
Email: ghinton@manukau.govt.nz

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