Concern about power shortages

There is further concern about power shortages in the Upper North Island.

The forecast demand for today is 1530 megawatts and the maximum capacity is 1564.

Transpower spokesman Chris Roberts says they hope they can meet demand.

One of the problems they face is that Huntly Power Station is not allowed to continue discharging warm water into the Waikato River once the river has reached a certain temperature; in warm weather this gives operators little room for manoeuvre.

Mr Roberts said things will start to get tight around 4.30 this afternoon and they have asked industries to reduce expected demand.

He said the problem may continue for the next few days.

- NEWSTALK ZB