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212
The number of consumers connected to the mains when the works were
opened was 1, as against 151 at the end of March quarter, 1898.
The following figures will serve to indicate the rapid increase in demand for
current. During the quarter ending
29th September, 1897, 24,585 units were sold.
25th December, 1897, 96,326 „
25th March, 1898, 163,384
Owing to the large demand for current at the heaviest part of the load, it
has been found necessary to increase the plant in all directions. The Vestry have,
therefore, decided to procure additional Boilers, Engines, Dynamos, Transformers,
&c., which it is hoped will be supplied and be in working order by October next.
The supply of current has been given constantly night and day since the
station was opened, with the exception of a period of about 15 minutes on the 12th
February, 1898, owing to an accident which occurred to one of the engines which
was in use at the time.
The cause of the accident was, no doubt, due to the want of relief valves
being fitted in the H.P. cylinders, an omission on the part of the Contractors, for
which, I must say, they promptly acknowledged their responsibility, and effected all
the necessary repairs at their sole expense.
The following figures show the number of lamps, &c., connected to the
Vestry's supply mains on the 25th March, 1898 :—
14700 8-c.p. Lamps, Private Lighting.
114 32-c.p. Lamps, Public Lighting.
57 Arc Lamps, Public Lighting.
68 Arc Lamps, Private Lighting.
27 Electric Motors, representing in the aggregate 344 brake horse power.
With the exception of Clerical Department and Mains Department, the
works are run on the 8-hours' shift system, the number of men employed in the
various departments being as follows :—
GENERATING STATION.
1 Chief Assistant Engineer
4 Electricians in Charge
1 Fitter
3 Engine Drivers
3 Cleaners
salaries and wages.
G. Kemp, £3 per week.
Three 35/- each, and one at 30/- a week.
at 10d. per hour.
at £2 each per week.
Two at £1 5s. 8d. each, and one at £1 per week