Energy saving trial possibility for Western Australia
Release Date: 17 March 2007
A new energy saving method for people who want to be more energy wise could be available in WA in the next 2 to 3 years.
Western Power is monitoring a trial currently being carried out in South Australia where people with reverse cycle air conditioners volunteer to have the compressor turned off for up to ten minutes at a time to help reduce the state's peak electricity use.
Western Power’s General Manager of Systems Management, Mr Ken Brown, said Western Australia may bring in a similar voluntary trial if it is found to be something people want to do to help reduce peak energy use.
“In South Australia there was a very positive response by the public to be involved in a trail with nearly three times more volunteers coming forward than was needed.
“This sort of energy saving program has been used for several years in other parts of the world because it appeals to people who want to be more energy efficient without causing them any change in their overall comfort levels.
“By turning off the compressor for up to ten minutes in a reverse cycle air conditioner, energy consumption is greatly reduced but the fan still runs so customers hardly notice a difference.
The energy saving program could also save the state millions of dollars in spending on electricity infrastructure.
“Electricity systems are built to provide for peak use times which occur for only about 2 to 3 days a year and millions of dollars in infrastructure could be saved if the peak were brought down”, Mr Brown said.
Contact us
If you have any questions regarding this media release please email us: media@westernpower.com.au
