15% drop in power usage after quake

12:13 pm on 23 August 2011

Electricity use in Christchurch dropped 15% after the earthquake in February.

Overall energy consumption, including electricity, petrol and other fuels, decreased by just over 8% in Christchurch.

The figures are from the Christchurch Agency for Energy, an organisation set up Christchurch City Council and supported by energy companies.

Chief executive Merv Altments says the return to pre-earthquake levels of consumption is proving to be very gradual.

The agency says the reconstruction of the central business district in Christchurch provides a once in a lifetime opportunity to build a city using more renewable and energy efficient options.