Power saving complacency creeping in

By KATHERINE HOBY

The head of the power saving taskforce is worried consumers may be getting complacent about conservation.

"It's only May, people," Winter Power Taskforce head Dr Patrick Strange said yesterday.

As savings start to slide, Dr Strange wants consumers to know that the biggest challenges and coldest weather are yet to come.

Savings for Monday dropped for the first time after a steady 10-day climb, dipping to 7.8 per cent from a high of 8.5 on Sunday.

While the drop could be partly blamed on a cold snap, consumers might also be starting to relax.

"Most people will understand it's still only May," he said. "We were on a bit of a winning streak but we are still on alert."

Recent savings had been very gratifying.

"If we get lots more rain things will certainly look healthier - but we can't count on that. We need people to keep their eye on the ball."

He hoped packs encouraging savings that were mailed to schools last week would help lift savings.

"Kids are great at savings and at asking mum and dad to save," he said. "We all know what children are like when they get into a project."