Electricity supply in Doncaster and Templestowe : a history of the Electricity Department of the City of Doncaster and Templestowe - Graeme F. Anderson/ Andersen. ISBN 0646090828. https://catalogue.nla.gov.au/Record/1874784 Scan of Original Booklet
May 2021: Permission request sent to author at Mr G F Anderson, 30 Tannock St, North Balwyn Vic 3104. (DTHS members believe that Graeme Anderson is deceased ). Book published/ sponsored by Manningham City Council.
Electricity Supply
in
DONCASTER and TEMPLESTOWE
A HISTORY OF THE ELECTRICITY DEPARTMENT OF THE CITY OF DONCASTER AND TEMPLESTOWE
BY
GRAEME F ANDERSEN
Formerly General Manager Electricity Services Deputy Chief Executive Officer
Published and Printed ISBN 0 646 09082 8
Graeme Andersen joined the Shire of Doncaster and Templestowe in 1963 as Deputy Electrical Engineer and in 1967, shortly after the proclamation of the Shire as a City, was appointed City Electrical Engineer. He witnessed the transformation of a fruit growing locality to a residential suburb, with over 100,000 people at the time of his retirement in 1987.
During this period, he represented the Council on Marketing and Underground Residential Distribution Committees of the Electricity Supply Association of Australia and in the latter years, was a member of the Association's Executive and Chairman of its Research and Development Committee.
He also served on the Committee of the Electrical Development Association of Victoria including a term as Vice-President. He was a member of the Board of Examiners for the Licencing of Electrical Mechanics and the Municipal Electrical Engineer's Board.
From 1987-1990, he was the Executive Officer of the Local Government Electricity Supply Association (Victoria) Inc.
He is a Life Member of the Electricity Supply Engineers Association of New South Wales.
ISBN 0 646 09082 8
When we look back at our role as Councillors during the 1960's, we realise the change that has taken place since that time.
Unlike today, Doncaster and Templestowe had many orchards for the growing of fruit to supply the
Australian and overseas markets. However, orchards were being replaced by land sub-divisions for residential development and the resultant growth in population was placing many pressures on the Council's services.
One of these services was the provision of electricity supply by the Council's Electricity Department. The electricity supply system had only been designed for rural purposes and was inadequate for the rapid development that was taking place. Also at this time, the SECV was in the process of acquiring the electricity undertakings throughout the State and had given notice of its intentions of purchasing the Council's electricity undertaking. There was an additional pressure brought about by a number of ratepayers who wanted to sell the undertaking as they were not satisfied with the service given by the Electricity Department and believed that the resultant funds could be applied to other Council, programs.
These difficulties were overcome by the joint dedication and efforts by councillors and staff, who not only resisted the SECV takeover, but supported the Department's activities in rebuilding the electricity supply system for the growing number of customers.
In this regard, particular mention should be given to two of the Electrical Engineers, Ray Elliot and Graeme Andersen, who each held this position for 20 years.
Ray Elliot was appointed in 1943 and during the wartime years, virtually operated the Electricity Department by himself as most of the workforce were overseas serving In the armed forces. He later attempted to cope with the increasing housing development with limited resources, until his
early death in 1963, in an environment in which the future of the Department was unknown.
Graeme Andersen was appointed City Electrical Engineer in 1967, although he acted in this position on several occasions from the time of his original appointment as Deputy Electrical Engineer in 1963, due to the extended illness of the Electrical Engineer at that time. He was able to bring new ideas to the Electricity Department arid, knowing that the Council was prepared to resist any SECV takeover, initiated works programs for the future development of the municipality. He later encouraged land developers to support the installation of underground reticulation in residential land subdivisions which resulted in many streets not having overhead wires,
Graeme's appointment followed recommendations from other City Electrical Engineers who believed that his previous experience in electricity distribution and the knowledge gained during his employment with a manufacturer of electrical switchgear, gave the Council the opportunity of having a person who was most suitable for developing the Council's Electricity Department. His knowledge and planning capabilities have since established a modem electrical system and his representation on a number of electricity associations has confirmed the industry's respect for him.
Since his retirement in 1987, he has continued his dedication to the Council and the electricity supply industry. Among his activities, he has written this history of the Electricity Department and we are pleased to thank him for his efforts.
Councillor 1960 - 1975 Shire President 1961/62
V C C Rush MIE Aust Chartered Professional Engineer Councillor 1961-1973 Shire President 1963/64
F.T ,F,fTTRrCITY SUPPLY IN DONCASTER AND TEMPLESTOWE
A history of the Electricity Department of the City of Doncaster and Templestowe
Page
Introduction 1
Historic Events 2
The Birth of Electricity 3
Electricity Comes to Doncaster (1911-1930) 5
Street Lighting . Electricity Supply in Doncaster
Electricity Supply in Templestowe
Consolidation
Industrial Supply
The Elliot Era (1930-1963) 17
The Era Begins Three Phase Supply . Supply to Subdivisions
The Turbulent Years (1963-1967) 31
From Orchards to Suburbia (1967-1987) 35
The Growth Continues Underground Reticulation The Politics of Power Planning for the Future
Rationalisation (1987- ) 45
Shire Electridans/Electrical Engineers 47
and City Electrical Engineers
Orders-in-Coundl & Bulk Supply Substations 48
Annual Statistics 49
INTOODUCTION
Entrepreneurial activities by Local Government is not new to the City of Doncaster and Templestowe. Nearly 80 years ago, the Council, with support from a group of ratepayers, arranged the extension of electricity supply to the municipality.
This action established the Electricity Department which today has nearly
34,000 customers and assets at current value amounting to $75million. The Electricity Department is one of the largest businesses in the municipality with an annual revenue in excess of $30million, from which the Council receives a financial return to support the expenditure for providing services to ratepayers.
This benefit to the community has been achieved by the initiative of the pioneers of Doncaster and Templestowe and the dedication of councilors, ratepayers and staff during the time of the Department.
This book is written to record a history which has been a significant part of
the development of the municipality. The author has been proud to share this history, having participated in the growth of the Electricity Department from 6,600 customers in 1963 to 30,800 in 1987.
Graeme F Andersen FIE Aust., CEE. April 1992
HISTORIC EVENTS
THE BIRTH OF EUBCTfflCTIT
This Century has seen a dramatic change in our lifestyle. This has been brought about by the rapid progress of science, but also made possible by the availability of electricity in every home, office, shop and factory.
The incandescent lamp was invented in 1879 and the power transformer in 1888. These developments changed the course of history and initiated the electricity supply industry that we have today. At that time, candles, kerosene and gas lamps were used for lighting, while wood, coal and gas were burnt for cooking and heating purposes. ' Today, electricity not only provides our lighting, cooking and heating needs, but also for refrigeration, entertainment, machine power and more recently, our brain power by the advent of the computer.
Although electricity has provided many advantages to the community, it has not been without difficulties in its acceptance. When Thomas Edison installed his electric light systems in New York in 1882, he placed signs in the buildings to overcome the reaction of sceptics. These signs read "This
room is equipped with Edison Electric light ______ The use of electricity for fighting is in no way
harmful to health, nor does it affect the soimdness of sleep*. It is therefore ironic, that knowing all the benefits provided by electricity, the public is still being subjected to the fear of adverse health effects from this commodity. Statements relating to electric and magnetic fields are often heard, but there is no proven evidence of health risks from the level of exposures that exist in our normal home and work environment or near transmission lines.
Electricity Supply in Melbourne had its beginnings in 1803 when the Government temporarily installed three arc lamps - one at the Post Office, one at the Telegraph Office and one outside Parliament House. Interest in electricity supply grew, and by 1896 the Electric Light and Power
Act, No. 1413 was passed by Parliament, franchising the right to Melbourne City Council and three private companies to establish electricity supply in the metropolitan area.
Although the public use of electricity was first applied to street lighting, it was probably in the domestic field that the more revolutionary development had taken place. Being primarily for fighting purposes only, the service was popularly referred to as electric light. However, it soon became apparent that the energy could be used for other purposes and appliances were designed and placed on the market.
The first form of radiator consisted of several lamps mounted in front of a reflector and these became very popular when tariffs were reduced for this usage. Experiments were also made with cooking appliances, but development along these lines was slow. Fuel, such as wood, was relatively cheap and all houses had fuel stoves. Unlike lighting, cooking had to compete largely on a cost basis,
however, the first electric oven was introduced in 1912. This was supplied by General Electric Co. and sold at 12 pounds ($24) and although it was not very popular, it paved the way for other types.
Electric irons were also introduced in 1912, when the Hotpomt iron immediately became popular and by 1915, there were approximately 5,000 irons in the Melbourne Metropolitan area. The electric kettle, although available in 1903, was very slow in being accepted, for most kitchens with fuel
stoves had a continuous supply of hot water. The first water heaters, introduced in 1909, were mainly used by dentists and doctors. Although special tariffs became available to encourage their
use, many years had passed before they became accepted by the pubic.
Up until about 1911, electricity around Melbourne was distributed by the Melbourne City Council and three private companies, which after amalgamation and takeover, became the Melbourne
Electric Supply Co. The area of electricity distribution had extended beyond the City, from Richmond to Camberwell and South Melbourne to Brighton.
As the demand for electricity became apparent, several Councils received deputations from
ratepayers to provide the facilities for them. Most Councils transferred their rights of distribution to the Melbourne Electric Supply Co., however, a number of other Councils obtained Orders-in- Council, from the Government to establish their own Undertakings. The Council of Footscray arranged for
ooncastsr / Tamptestowe .Historical Society
the supply of electricity in 1911, Brunswick, Nunawading (which included the present municipalities of Box Hill and Nunawading and taken over by Box Hill Council), Northcote, Port Melbourne and Preston in 1912, Coburg, Doncaster and Heidelberg in 1914 and Williamstown in 1915. These Councils, after considering their own local generation, all decided to take the supply of electricity from either the Melbourne City Council or the Melbourne Electric Supply Co.
This period was during the first world war and at a time when the Victorian Government became concerned about the limited generating capacity within the State, particularly following the experiences of industrial strikes in New South Wales. In 1917, the Government appointed a Committee to advise on the viability of a State owned Authority undertaking the generation, transmission and distribution of electricity. The Committee's report resulted in the State Government legislating the Electricity Commissioners Act 1918, which took effect in January 1919 and provided for the appointment by the Govemor-in-Council of three Electricity Commissioners. The Electricity Commissioners became the State Electricity Commission of Victoria in January 1921 and Sir John Monash was appointed its first Chairman.
This commenced the development of the Latrobe Valley for the generation of electricity and the Commission's program of providing electricity services throughout the State. In 1925, the Commission administered the Melbourne Electric Supply Company before acquiring its assets in 1930. Other municipal and private electricity undertakings were gradually taken over during the Commission's program.
Despite attempts of acquisition and control by the Commission, eleven Municipal Electricity Undertakings in the metropolitan area of Melbourne are still providing services to their ratepayers. One of these is the Electricity Department of the City of Doncaster and Templestowe.
This Room Is Equipped With kjt
Edison Electric %iqht.
Do not attempt to Ii§ht with match. Simply turn key on wall by the door.
The use of Electricity for lighting is in no way harmful to health, nor does it affect the soundness of sleep.
One historical momenta of Edison Originally issued duriny the introduction ot electricity supply to Sew York in 1882
Street Uditing
M^CimCTTY COMES TO BQWCASTEB
Like other localities, it was the need for street lighting that led the Council of the Shire of Doncaster to provide electricity to its ratepayers, for when the lighting of roads around Doncaster was first considered, there was no electricity available within the Shire*
The first recorded request for street lighting was on 10 October 1911 when the Doncaster Progress Association asked the Council to receive a deputation from the Association for six street lamps to be erected in the Shire at various locations. Alter due consideration, the Council resolved that its Finance Committee find out, before making up the estimates, the probable cost of lamps, as well as the cost of lighting the lamps with kerosene for a year.
On 5 December 1911, the Shire Secretary presented the following report:
T have the honour to report having made enquiries re cost of street lamps: The pillars, cast iron,
are three pounds ten shillings each ($7), the lanterns are one pound each ($2), the fonts two shillings each (20 cents), the burners and chimneys, say one shilling (10 cents), the erection ten
shillings ($1.00), total five pounds three shillings ($10.30); cost of kerosene burning until midnight on nights which are not moonlight, fourteen shillings and sixpence ($1.45), chimneys and wicks one shilling and sixpence (15c), total sixteen shillings ($1.60)."
Upon receiving the report, the Council directed the Shire Secretary to inform the Progress
Association of the investigations into costs of the street lamps and their upkeep, and to advise them that the Council did not see its way clear to put up the lamps and attend to them.
During 1912, the Progress Association must have been persistent, for the Council held a special meeting to deal with street lighting and decided that provided favourable replies had been received from shopkeepers that they were willing to attend to the street lights, the Council would apply to the Postmaster General's Department for permission to use telegraph poles, where necessary, for fixing the lights. The shopkeepers agreed to the proposal and approval for the use of the telegraph poles was received from the Postmaster General's Department in January 1913.
Before proceeding to install the street lights, the Council apparently considered alternative types of lighting. In May 1913, the Council received an offer by the Gloria Light Co to send out one of their lamps to give the Finance Committee a demonstration and, if satisfied, the Company would install three lights anywhere in the Shire for one month free of cost.
On 15 July 1913, it was reported to the Council that the Committee had inspected the Gloria light and found that it was too complicated and intricate. The Council was informed that three carbide lamps and three kerosene lamps had been ordered and the three carbide lamps had been installed -
one at Beer's (a shop at the comer of Doncaster Road and Williamsons Road), one at Doncaster Post Office and one at East Doncaster Post Office. The report to the Council also stated that the carbide lights were not working satisfactorily and had to,be sent back to their suppliers to have them attended to, but expected to have them returned during that week. The installations of the kerosene lamps were not recorded.
The Council, at this meeting, directed the Secretary to write to the Athenaeum Hall Trustees and cool stores in the District asking them if they would supply street lights from their gas mid electric plants, if the Council paid the costs.
In August 1913, the Secretary of the Athenaeum advised the Council that it was doubtful if the lighting of an acetylene lamp in front of the Athenaeum Hall would be satisfactory, but would have it lighted to see how it "shows up". Council also received a reply from the West Doncaster Cool Storage Co Pty Ltd indicating their 'willingness to install a light on its door at a cost to the Council of one pound ten shillings ($3.00) and an annual maintenance charge of two pounds ($4) or the average amount of maintenance of the other lights installed by the Council. The Council accepted the offer
and the first electric street light was installed on 1 September 1913.
Street lighting in Doncaster was under way and other street lights were installed. However, it was not without problems. Some kerosene lamps were not being lit by those shopkeepers who had promised to look after them and, on 10 February 1914, Council discussed this lack of civic responsibility and resolved "that those persons who promised to light the street lights be written to asking how is it that the lamps were not lighted".
Many of these problems were soon to be overcome, for the Council was to secure a supply of electricity for Doncaster.
Mectridtv Supply in Doncaster
On 27 July 1914, the Council received a deputation from the Doncaster Progress Association requesting a proposal to secure the supply of electricity to Doncaster. At this Council meeting, a summary was presented giving the costs of installation of various electricity supply undertakings that
had been carried out by Consulting Engineers, Lincolne and Dougall. A report was also received from a Mr W H Ashman, Consulting Engineer, but was not to be presented unless the Council was prepared to pay the sum of 5 Pounds ($10).
The Council apparently agreed to the payment as the report of Mr Ashman was read at another Meeting on 11 August. It included supplying electricity by two means: A scheme for building a
power house for the purpose of generating electricity and supplying directly from this power house
to consumers amounting to an expenditure of 4,616 pounds ($9,232) - An alternative scheme taking a supply from the Melbourne Electric Supply Company instead of providing the power house, at a total cost of 3,798 pounds ($7,596). Both schemes depended upon the connection of 150 homes to make them financially viable.
In considering the matter carefully, the Council did not believe that there was a likelihood of 150
homes being economically connected as they were so scattered. Consequently, Council decided not to recommend either of the schemes.
At the same meeting, a Mr Valentine J Crowley, Consulting Electrical Engineer, also presented a report on supplying electricity to Doncaster at an estimated cost of $1,845 ($3,690). It was decided that should the Council take any action in providing electricity, Mr Crowley would be appointed as
the Consultant. It was also decided to hold a special meeting on 24 August for Mr Crowley to submit a full report of his proposal and that for this meeting, Mr Crowley and members of the Doncaster Progress Association were to find out the number of houses that could be connected.
Mr Crowley presented the following report to the special meeting of the Council:
To the President and Councillors of The Shire of Doncaster
Gentlemen,
As you will no doubt remember I visited your Council Chambers on the occasion of your last meeting and gave you an outline report on an Electric Lighting Scheme, and I beg leave to confirm those figures there given as well as to supply some further information on the
proposal. To take the business up at the point where it was at the meeting on Tuesday last, you will remember that it was proposed on Cr Crouch's suggestion that a canvass of the area be made by myself and members of the Progress Association; I am pleased to be able to inform you that some members of the Progress Association have been so public spirited as
to Guarantee the Council against all loss in the business so that a canvass of the area was therefore unnecessary. I would mention that this is the finest thing that I have encountered
in this State and I think that the District is to be congratulated on having such Citizens. With regard to the Cost of the Scheme the figures are as follows:
Capital Cost. High Voltage Supply from Boundary at Koonung Koonung Creek to comer of
Doncaster and Blackburn Roads. 855 pounds ($1,710). Distribution Lines on Doncaster Road, Williamson's Road, Elgar Road, Bismarck Road (now Victoria Street), German Road (now George Street), Blackburn Road to Mr A Zerbe's house (now Zerbes Reserve) 500 pounds ($1,000). Wire complete 130 pounds ($260). 100 houses connected to Lines 270 pounds ($540). Engineering and incidentals 90 pounds ($180). Total $1,845 ($3,690). Money for the first year wages and incidentals 255 pounds ($510). Grand Total of Capital necessary to be borrowed 2,100 pounds ($4,200). The above estimate is based on the cost of the Lilydale Scheme with an amount equal to ten per cent added. Estimated expenditure based on an input of 25,000 Units per annum. Expenditure: Interest at 5% per annum on 2,100 pounds ($4,200) = 100 pounds ($200). Sinking Fund at 1-1/2% per annum on $2,100 ($4,200) = 30 pounds ($60). Wages at 3 pounds ($6) per week = 156 pounds ($312). Power Cost for 25,000 units = 130 pounds ($260). Printing Stationery etc = 14 pounds ($28). Total per year 430 pounds ($860).
Expected Revenue per year. Revenue: 100 houses at 4 pounds ($8) per house per year = 400 pounds ($800), 25 Street Lamps at 2 pounds ($4) = 50 pounds ($100). Irrigation Plants six at 10 pounds ($20) per year = 60 pounds ($120). Total 510 pounds ($1,020).
Included in the above estimate of 4 pounds ($8) per house per year is the Revenue from Shops, Hotels, Bank, Mechanics, as well as the income from small Motors as the Butcher, Baker, Blacksmiths as well as the small amounts as Irons, Fans etc. all of which will swell the revenue. On the above figures there will be a profit of 80 pounds ($160) per year. I am confident that you can expect at least this amount of profit as there will be certain to be more than six irrigation plants. The source of supply for the above Scheme is the Melbourne Electric Supply Co. who have notified me that they are prepared to provide the current. If after perusing the above data you Gentlemen are inclined to decide to install the scheme, I have much pleasure in informing you that I will be prepared to act in the capacity of Consulting Electrical Engineer to your Council for a fee of five percent Commission on the Cost of the Work. For this fee I will carry out the necessary work of obtaining an Order-in-Council, prepare plans and Specifications, call for Tenders, recommend the best Tender for acceptance, and supervise and Test the completed work and hand it over complete, for operation.
By way of personal recommendation, I would mention that I have had ten years experience in the Electrical Field abroad in New Zealand, United States, England and Germany. I have been for the past twenty months in this business and am at present acting as Consulting Electrical Engineer to the Municipalities of Bacchus Marsh, Gisborne, Romsey, Lancefield, Werribee, Lilydale, Maryborough, Tungamah, Clunes, Coburg, Wynyard, Tas, and reported last month on the Coburg - Brunswick Electric Tramway for the Melbourne City Council. Hoping to receive your Commission for this work and thanking you for your past Courtesies. I remain yours obediently.
Valentine J Crowley A.A.I.E.E.
Following a meeting of the Councillors with the guarantors of the scheme, the Council decided to go ahead with the "Electric Light and Power System in the Shire of Doncaster". A loan of 1,750 pounds ($3,500) was obtained from the Commonwealth Bank of Australia repayable by 30 equal half yearly instalments over 15 years at the interest rate of 4-1/2% per annum. The Council also obtained an Order-in-Council No. 108 for part of the Shire of Doncaster and entered into an agreement with the Melbourne Electric Supply Co for the bulk supply of electricity. It is interesting to note that all high voltage lines in the metropolitan area had to be underground unless approved by the Public Works Department. In view of the high costs of extending the electricity supply approximately 3 kilometres from Balwyn to Doncaster, special permission was granted to the Melbourne Electric Supply Co for an overhead supply. At that time, Doncaster was outside the metropolitan area, so an overhead system for the municipality did not require permission.
The proposed system was a two wire 4000 volt high voltage supply and a 3 wire 460/230 volt low voltage supply for distribution to customers. Tenders were called for the supply and installation of poles, insulators, cables, transformers, meters and other equipment for the distribution system. Some 28 tenders were received and contracts were awarded to 6 of the tenderers in July 1915. The total value of the contracts was 1507 pounds ($3,014) including the installation costs of 302 pounds ($604).
At this time, the Council received a deputation of ratepayers living in East Doncaster, requesting the extension of electricity eastwards of Blackburn Road. This was generally along Doncaster and Mitcham Roads with the installation of 10 street lights. Like their counterparts in Doncaster, members of the East Doncaster Progress Association were prepared to guarantee the Council
against any losses as a result of the extension. The Council, consequently, initiated steps to obtain an Order-in-Council No. 119 to extend the supply into this area.
The Consultant Mr Crowley estimated the cost of this extension to be 900 pounds ($1,800) with an
annual operating cost of 117 pounds ($234). Following a special meeting of the Council and receipt of guarantees from members of the Progress Association, an amount of 1,000 ($2,000) was borrowed from the CounciTs bankers, the E S & A Bank Ltd. Doncaster, at an interest rate of 4-1/2% per annum which was payable half yearly. This loan was for a period of 30 years with the principal
being repaid by annual instalments of 30 pounds ($60) during the first ten years, 40 pounds ($80) during the second ten years and 30 pounds ($60) during the final ten years.
Construction of the Doncaster Scheme was under way and other ratepayers in Williamsons Road, Elgar Road, Church Road, Whittens Lane, Queens Avenue and Blackburn Road wanted the connection of electricity supply. The Council approved of these extensions upon each ratepayer guaranteeing to pay annually for 5 years an amount covering the interest, sinking fund, depreciation and operating expenses of each extension.
By the end of 1915, the Council had accepted a tender to build a switch-house at the comer of Doncaster Road and High Street for receiving a supply of electricity from Melbourne Electric Supply Co. It also arranged for this contractor to install street lighting at several locations. Houses were being connected to the already constructed electricity mains by another contractor who after a time became unwilling to continue due to material not always being available. It was left to the Consultant to arrange the house connections "as speedily and economically as possible". The work of Melbourne Electric Supply Co was also delayed by the lack of materials, but the Company had hoped to be able to supply the Doncaster system early in 1916.
The Electric Light Committee drew up a specification of duties for an Electrician-in-Charge and advertised for applications. The Council at the meeting of the 8 February 1916 appointed Mr John Vergers, previously from Johannesburg, South Africa to this position.
It had been planned to have the "switch-on” ceremony on the night of this Council meeting, but the Melbourne Electric Supply Co had not obtained the insulators in time to complete the construction works. This ceremony finally took place at Beer's Comer (comer Doncaster Road and Williamsons
Road) at 8.30 p.m. on the following night, the 9th February, when the President Cr August Zerbe asked his wife to close the switch.
During March 1916, construction works for the East Doncaster Scheme were progressing rapidly. However, the Council received a letter from the Shire of Nunawading drawing attention to the fact that the electric light poles erected along Mitcham Road, at the boundary between the Shires, were placed in Nunawading's territory without consent. A letter of explanation was requested.
The Council replied that the contractors had to erect them on the Nunawading side of the road because the telephone line was on the Doncaster side and the Postal Department would not let them
erect the electricity poles on that side. The Council also expressed its regret that the poles were erected on the Nunawading side without receiving permission. The Nunawading Council accepted
that the poles could remain in their present locations but wished to have control of them and the right to use them. Doncaster Council finally agreed to allow Nunawading the use of the poles but
By July 1916 there were 98 consumers connected to both Doncaster schemes and the progressive revenue received was 83 pounds 19 shillings and 7 pence ($167.96) for the Doncaster scheme and 8 pounds 17 shillings and 2 pence ($17.72) for the East Doncaster scheme. The tariff for the consumption of electricity was charged 1 pound ($2) for any amount up to 20 kWh per quarter and 1 shilling (10c) for each additional kWh.
The Shire Electrician, Mr Vergers, was receiving 2 pounds per week but wished to work as a contractor for the Council. He submitted his resignation to the Electric Light Committee which, after discussion, agreed to alow Mm to continue as the Electrician on a part-time basis so that he could supply meter boards and carry out other work performed by an existing contractor at the same price as that paid to the contractor.
By December 1916, the revenue for the previous quarter was 76 pounds 7 shillings and 6 pence
($152.75) and 27 pounds eleven shillings ($55.10) for the Doncaster and East Doncaster schemes respectively while after a year of operation to February 1917, a total revenue of 405 pounds 14 shillings and 8 pence ($811.47) had been received.
The years of 1917 and 1918 were fairly uneventful excepting that the Shire Electrician had submitted his resignation on two further occasions before terminating his employment in April 1918 to contract to Electricity Authorities around Victoria. He was replaced by Mr Francis W Wright. It was also during this period that no electricity meter was available for the connection of supply to the home of a resident. To overcome the difficulty, the Chairman of the Electric Light Committee instructed the Electrician to remove the meter at the Shire Hal for this purpose and to charge the Council on the basis of the average quarterly accounts of the previous 12 months.
Mrs A Zerbe who first "switched on* the electricity supply to Doncaster.
SHIRE OF DONCASTER CONSUMERS’ REGISTER 30 MAY 1917
Athenaeum Hall
Athenaeum Hall Caretaker’s
House
Aumann, E
Aumann, Paul
Bayley, Charles
Beer, Thomas
Behrens, Alice Martha
Behrens, Kenwood
Bienvenue
Bullen, George Henry Bullen, William John Bullen
Chapman, Alexander Church of Christ Church of England Church of England Vicarage Clark, Mrs Clay, Henry J C Clay, Herbert Clay, Percy Clay, Richard Corbett, David Joseph Crouch,A Crouch, Henry Crouch, Lewis Fromhold, Mary Finger, John T Fitzgerald, Maurice Joseph Government Cool Stores Co. Hanke, Ernest Handaryde, W.
Hardige, Joseph Heitsch, Frederick Howell, John Bernard Homer, Robert Ireland, Mrs Jessie Lawford, E I Lawford, John Burkby Lauer, August - Shop Lauer, August Bakehouse Lees, John Leber, A.
Leber, J
Lutheran Church Lutheran Church Parsonage Leber, Otto Methodist Church Miles, E Moffat, Robert Morrison, Frederick Macnickol, Mrs Morrison, Edwin
Neal, Walter
Parish Hall, E. Done. Church of
England
Petty, Frank
Petty, Frederick John
Petty, George
Petty, Herbert
Petty, John
Petty, Robert Edwin
Petty, Thomas, Junior
Petty, William Gordon
Reynolds, Ann Luisa
Reynolds, Henry George
Rhodes, James
Robinson, John
Sanatorium - F. J. Drake
Sell, James
Serpell, Richard
Smedley, Frank
Smith, Ellen
Smith, L.H.
Smith, R.A,. Mrs.
Symond, Beatrice
Somner, Agnes
Sykes, Charlotte Elizabeth
Sladen, Annie
Shire Hall
Tully, Albert
Tully, David
Tully, John
Thomas, William
Thiele, August
Thiele, Alfred E.
Thiele, Ambrose Fredereick Thiele, Henry Tindal, Emily Tully, John James Verco, George Day Webb, William Arthur West Doncaster Cool Stores Whitten, William John Williamson, David Wilson, Frederick Witchell, Henry Walter Wittig, Rosina Williamson, John Zander, Henry Zander, Benjamin Zelius, Mrs E Zelius, Henry Zerbe, August Zerbe, Frederick
Meetrititty Supply In Templestowe
At the end of the first world war, most of the houses along the electricity mains of the Doncaster schemes were connected to supply, the Blackburn Road line having extended into Woodhouse Road and Anderson Creek Road*
During 1919, several ratepayers in Templestowe wanted electricity in their homes and were becoming interested in initiating a scheme. A Mr John Williamson on behalf of a group of ratepayers approached the Council, in the September, to enquire on the possibility of electric supply being extended along High Street towards Templestowe. The following month, a public meeting of Templestowe ratepayers was called by the Shire President to discuss the possibility of an electric lighting scheme for that part of the Shire. The Council would agree to a scheme on the understanding that the residents, taking a supply of electricity from the proposed extension, would pay the Council for the electricity consumed over a 5 year period of an amount at least equal to the cost of the extension.
By January 1920, a sufficient number of ratepayers were prepared to act as guarantors and the Shire President interviewed the Electricity Commissioners (later to become the SECV) to initiate an Order for the scheme. Guarantee agreements were duly signed by several ratepayers, so formal steps were taken to obtain an Order-in-Council No. 149 for the authority to supply electricity in the area of the Templestowe Riding.
While waiting on the outcome of the Order, the electricity supply for the Doncaster Scheme was still being extended. The Orchardist Cool Store in Doncaster Road was allowed to connect a 5 horsepower motor but only on the condition that it did not operate at the same time as the neighbour's motor. The Committee of the Athenaeum Hall wanted electric supply for its bioscope but this was initially refused by the Council. However, later in the year permission was given, but under certain conditions fixed by the Shire Electrician.
The Council, in August 1920, received advice from the Electricity Commissioners that the Order for Templestowe would be submitted to the Executive Council for approval. Following another meeting with the ratepayers of Templestowe, the Council resolved that the Shire President interview the bank manager to determine if the bank would underwrite an Electric Light loan. The proposal was
to float a loan of 4000 pounds ($8000) for 30 years at 6% interest for extending the electric supply in both Doncaster and Templestowe Ridings.
The bank would not underwrite this loan but agreed to finance the Council by overdraft up to 1500 pounds ($3000) for Electric Light Schemes. The Council decided to pursue obtaining a loan of 4000 pounds ($8000) and this was finally arranged with the State Savings Bank of Victoria with repayment over 15 years at an interest of 6 1/2%.
The proposed extensions were:
For the Templestowe Scheme:
Doncaster Road from the substation at Koonung Creek Bridge to High Street, along High Street, Manningham Road (part), Parker Street, Union Street, Foote Street, Anderson Street, Clarke Street (now northern end of Williamsons Road), Templestowe Road and Smiths Road comprising 4 miles (6.4km) of high voltage and low voltage lines.
For the Doncaster Scheme:
Parts of Victoria Street, King Street, Serpells Road and Andersons Creek Road comprising 2 mies (3.2 km) of high and low voltage mains and 1 1/2 mile (2.4 km) of low voltage mains.
Tenders were called for the schemes and a new bulk supply Agreement for a period of 5 years was negotiated with the Melbourne Electric Supply Co. These works were completed during 1921.
The Shire Electrician announced his resignation to take effect in the September of that year and a
Mr William Hummerston was appointed at a salary of 208 pounds ($416) with the right of private
contracting.
Requests for electricity supply from ratepayers in Warrandyte were also being received by the Council. The Electrician was instructed to furnish an estimate of the cost of providing an Electric Light Scheme for Warrandyte, from Oban Road, Ringwood to the Warrandyte Sports Ground. The Shire of Lilydale, which also operated an Electricity Undertaking was asked if Warrandyte could be supplied from its system. Having been advised that Lilydale was not prepared to extend its supply, the Council made inquiries with the Electricity Commission for a supply from Ringwood. It was to be several years before these arrangements were finalised.
The Shire Electrician resigned after only 5 months service and was replaced by Mr J N Day. The new Electrician reported to the Council on the generally poor condition of the Doncaster system and
the progress of works. The Council became concerned about his report and resolved that the President arrange for an expert to report on the whole electrical system, present condition and any
alteration required.
In June 1922, Mr F P Bird, Electrical Engineer with the City of Preston was engaged to report to the Council on the works that were necessary to improve the safety of the system. The Council also
instructed the Electrician "not to place himself in any position of danger on the poles etc. until such time as the necessary improvements are effected".
Later that year the Council received a report from Mr Bird on the works necessary to reinstate the electricity system. He proposed that the work could be carried out under his general direction and
would involve cutting off the power between 7.30 am and 4.30 pm daily for over one month.
The Shire Electrician, during the time of carrying out the works, had requested the Council for an increase in his salary and travelling allowances on several occasions and not receiving a satisfactory answer, he handed in his resignation to take effect in October 1923. His replacement was Mr W F Keedle of Malvern.
Ratepayers in Lower Templestowe and Bulleen were now wanting electricity in their homes and guarantees were received from residents in Lower Templestowe and some of those in Bulleen.
Apparently, a few ratepayers from Bulleen had previously approached the SECV for alternative arrangements, but the Commission had suggested to the Council that the supply could be best
provided by the City of Heidelberg. The Council, not surprisingly, objected to this proposition.
Having accepted the guarantees, the Council, in November 1923, let contracts for the extension of supply along Manningham Road to Bulleen Road at a cost of 667 pounds ($1334). The Council, at the same meeting also approved of a contract for the reinstatement of the existing electricity system
as recommended by Mr Bird, and the construction of additional electricity mains in Doncaster at the cost of 589 pounds ($1178). These works were financed from a loan of 1500 pounds ($3000) arranged by the Council with the State Savings Bank of Victoria.
By June 1924 the contract works for the Lower Templestowe and Bulleen residents were completed. This was followed by the extension of electricity along Thompsons Road.
Although the Doncaster and Templestowe Ridings had been united as the Shire of Doncaster, the costs of the electric schemes were separated. The charges for salaries, printing, stationery, interest and other items of expenditure were divided on the basis of 2/3 cost to Doncaster and 1/3 to Templestowe. The street lighting costs were shared equally, however, from September 1924, they
were paid from the CouneiTs General Revenue. The electricity tariffs for residential customers were 9 pence (7.5c) per kWh for light and 4 pence (3.3c) per kWh for power, these having to be approved by the SECV as a result of authority granted to the Commission during the previous year.
Consolidation
By the end of 1924, electricity supply had been provided to over 200 ratepayers in Doncaster and Templestowe, the extension of the electricity system being carried out using contractors for
construction works.
The Council however was becoming concerned about the finances of the Electric Light Schemes as the bank overdraft had increased to nearly 1600 pounds ($3200) which was in excess of the annual revenue of 1500 pounds ($3,000) from both the Doncaster and Templestowe Schemes. A number of customers were also complaining about the mistakes in their electricity accounts. The Council consequently decided to engage an Accountant, Mr Willis, to prepare proper balance sheets for each year's operation of both Electric Light Schemes since their inception. The Pubic Works Department also appointed' a Mr T C B Minchin, Auditor to investigate the accounts.
At a special meeting of the Council in December 1924, the Auditor reported that the Electric Light Accounts of both Schemes were unsatisfactory. He also queried the accuracy of the Collectors Books kept by the Electrician. The Council at this meeting dismissed the Shire Electrician and decided to advertise for a replacement Electrician on a part-time basis. The salary was to be 208 pounds ($416) per annum with the right of private practice and a travelling allowance of 10 shillings ($1) per week.
A Mr James Shorthouse was appointed as the Shire Electrician in January 1925 and commenced a period of 5 years employment with the Council, during which time, he gained respect from the Councillors for his ability to perform his role in a very satisfactory manner.
The Accountant, Mr Willis, had some difficulty in determining accurate details of items of expenditure for each of the Schemes and the reconciliation of the meter readings and the Collectors Books, the latter causing a delay in the new Electrician being able to read meters and collect accounts.
In July 1925 the Accountant was engaged by the Council to write up an Electric light Register and Report as at the end of each quarter, for submission to the Council at a remuneration of 8 pounds ($16) per quarter. The Accountant was unable to separate the proportion of the bank overdraft attributed to each of the Schemes so the Council allotted 2/3 to Doncaster and 1/3 to Templestowe.
Having resolved the finances, the Council decided to implement several policies, these including:
That private lines beyond the building line to the meter be paid by the occupier.
That the Electrician's duties cease at the meter and that any work within the premises was to be at the occupiers expense.
That the Electrician call only once on each consumer for the quarterly electricity readings and, if a consumer was absent, to leave a notice of average reading to be adjusted next quarter.
That a security deposit of 1 pound ($2) be paid by tenants if the owner did not guarantee the payment of electricity accounts.
That all electric light accounts must be paid within 30 days from date of reading, otherwise
the supply would be cut off and the sum of 10 sMllings and 6 pence ($1.05) be charged for reconnection.
. That existing tenants who refuse to pay the security deposit to have their Electric Light cut
off after the expiry of 30 days.
That the charges for electricity from 1st October 1925 be 9 pence (7.5c) per kWh for light and 4 pence (3.3c) per kWh for power and that the quarterly minimum charges be 10 shillings ($1) and 6 SMMngs (60c) respectively.
. That 50 pounds ($100) of the Shire Secretary's annual salary be charged against the Electric Light account.
That the Accountant's quarterly financial report included a comparison with the previous year's quarter.
The Council was also concerned about the number of meters which were not recording the correct consumption of electricity. Steps were taken to determine the accuracy of various manufacturers of meters and Mr Bird, Electrical Engineer of the City of Preston, was asked about his preferred meter. Many meters had to be replaced and the Council decided that, until meters were adjusted, consumers would be charged a flat rate of 3 shillings and 4 pence (33c) per month for lighting and 2 shillings (20c) per month for power.
There was a need for the Electrician to erect poles without employing contractors, so he obtained approval from the Council to purchase a motor truck for this purpose. A loan of 200 pounds ($400) was arranged with the E S & A Bank and a 1 ton Ford Model T Truck chassis was purchased in October 1925 at a cost of 155 pounds ($310). A body and a pole lifting frame and hand winch was attached to the chassis. Although a motor truck had a load capacity of only 1 ton, the poles were more slender than those of today due to the electricity mains being smaller in cross-section. The Council also purchased a two wheel single pole carrier for towing poles to their erection sites.
The Electrician, by this time, was gaining the confidence of the Council for he was given the freedom of determining the location of street lights and transformers and employing day labour as required at
13/6 ($1.35) per day. He also had obtained approval from the Postmaster General's Department to attach electricity service wires to telephone poles. Likewise, suspension wires for over-road street
lighting were allowed to be attached.
In July 1926, the Council agreed to the erection of a store for materials and accommodation for the truck. This was located next to the Shire Hall. Further electric light extensions in Templestowe Road , Wilsons Road, Church Road, Leeds Street, Blackburn Road, McGowans Road and Springvale Road occurred during 1926 and 1927.
Ratepayers in Warrandyte still had no supply of electricity as earlier attempts to obtain supply from
the Shire of Lilydale and the SECV had not progressed. The Shire Electrician was asked about the possibility of supplying Warrandyte from the Templestowe Scheme but this was impractical due to the distance to Warrandyte from the substation in Doncaster Road at Rooming Creek.
ELECTRICITY SUPPLY SYSTEM -1925
Following another attempt to obtain supply from Ringwood, the Council was informed by the SECV that ’’the expected annual revenue would be so low in relation to the capital cost of making supply available that it was impossible to formulate a commercially feasible scheme”.
The Council was asked by a group of Warrandyte residents to seek a deputation with the Commission. This resulted in the District Superintendent of the SECV attending a meeting of ratepayers during August 1927 when he outlined a proposal and cost of an electricity scheme. His proposal was based on the residents having to guarantee a minimum revenue over 5 years. However not being able to fulfil the conditions of the proposal, the ratepayers still had no possibility of an electricity supply for their homes.
It is interesting to note that, at this time, the SECV was developing standard electricity tariffs for the metropolitan area of Melbourne and introduced the two-part tariff for domestic consumers. This two-part tariff comprised a room charge of 1 shilling (10c) per month payable quarterly, no meter rent, and a reduced energy charge of 1-1/4 pence (1c) per kWh. Unlike Doncaster at that time, the Commission was encouraging consumers to use more electricity. In introducing the two-part tariff, Sir John Monash stated in Ms message to a Conference of Metropolitan Municipal Electric Supply Authorities: "It has been said that the small consumer is not interested in extending the use of electricity because he cannot afford the cost of domestic electrical appliances, or cannot afford to pay cash for them. As to the cost, there are many appliances such as irons, radiators, kettles, jugs, etc. etc. wMch are well within the means of all. Unfortunately, however, the consequential savings, both in labour and cost wMch such appliances make possible in the home are not yet realised by many people. If they were, the small investment required would be regarded as well worth while. It is only a matter of time, however, for this to be widely realised by all consumers, even the poorest.
.... As to the more expensive electrical appliances, such as ranges, cookers, washers, hot water
services, and the like, the Commission is introducing into its own supply districts a hire-purchase system, wMch will bring such appliances within the reach of most people.”
Industrial Supply
The Shire Electrician regularly presented his montWy report to the Council meeting; a typical
statement being "8 poles were replaced, damage repaired after storm, meter reading nearly completed; 4 meters were replaced wMch were out of repair; replaced 7 lamps in Doncaster and 5
lamps in Templestowe; 1 man employed for 10 days”. He had a mixture of duties and employed casual labour only as required for wMch the Council now paid 13 shillings ($1.30) per day.
During 1928, poles could be purchased at 14 shillings ($1.40) each and electricity meters at 30 shillings ($3) each. The Shire Electrician prepared his estimates for the supply of a low voltage 3 wire system based on the cost of 194 pounds ($388) per mile.
The Electricity Department had now been operating for 12 years. The electricity system was originally developed mainly for lighting but now there was a demand for the use of electricity for
other purposes. The electricity mains had a rating of only 100 amperes and were not suitable for loads from larger electric motors, particularly when they were located at a distance from substations. There were instances when electric motors had been connected and there was insufficient power to operate them, causing much annoyance to the consumers and embarrassment to the Council
Realising something had to be done, the Council inquired if the SECV could supply electricity for industrial purposes. It should be pointed out that the Council was still purchasing bulk electricity from the Melbourne Electricity Supply Company but this company was due to be taken over by the SECV during 1930. Discussions were held between the Council and officers of the SECV during wMch the Commission offered to take over the territory being serviced by the Council. The Council would not accept this offer and inquired if the SECV could supply electricity from the State system as it had a greater capacity than the Melbourne Electric Supply Co.
At this time, the Electrician was under considerable pressure from many customers who wanted to install electric motors. He had been criticised for refusing the connection of motor installations and was also accused by the Council of not keeping proper records of materials used to enable jobs to be
costed and stocks balanced at the end of the year. The relationship between the Electrician and some Councillors had apparently deteriorated to the extent that on 7th November 1928, the Electric Light Committee received his resignation: "Owing to interference by Councillors of the work with Electric Light, I find it impossible to continue as Engineer-in-Charge of same, so wish to tender my resignation to its position of Electrician, to the Shire of Doncaster & Templestowe".
The Committee, after some discussion, would not accept the resignation and asked that it be withdrawn. At the following meeting of the Council, the Electrician was granted 14 days holidays to be taken at a convenient time.
Shortly after the Council meeting, the Electrician suffered an accident which kept him away from work for over 2 months. The SECV asked the Council for particulars of the accident as it was apparently work related. The State Accident Insurance Co, however, informed the Council that, as Mr Shorthouse received in excess of 350 pounds ($700) per annum, the Council's insurance policy would not cover this incident.
During the absence of Mr Shorthouse, a former Electrician, Mr J Vergers, acted in his place until February 1929. Upon resuming his duties, the Electrician continued with his normal work program, but he was faced with a report from the SECV relating to the poor condition of the electricity supply system. The annual revenue at this time was 3700 pounds ($7400) and the Electric Light Accounts overdraft at the bank had grown to 2400 pounds ($4800). Consequently there had been limited funds available for maintenance works after paying the charges for bulk electricity, operating costs, bank interest and loan commitments.
The SECV had not replied to the earlier inquiry for an industrial supply to help meet customer demands which would have provided additional revenue. The Council directed the Shire Secretary to write to the City of Box Hill for a meeting with representatives of the Council to discuss "the control of Electric Light". However, that Council was not interested in extending its electricity supply system into Doncaster.
In July 1929, the SECV informed the Council that the Commission did not consider it advisable to change the arrangement for the bulk supply of electricity being received from the Melbourne Electric Supply Co. The Council, therefore, had no choice but to make arrangements with its bankers to extend the overdraft so that the electricity supply system could, once again, be reinstated to a sound condition.
In April 1930, the Directors of the West Doncaster Cool Store Co wanted a supply of electricity for approximately 50 horsepower of electric motors to drive their refrigeration equipment instead of continuing the use of their gas suction plant. As the Council's electric supply system was inadequate for this purpose, several meetings of Councillors and the Electrician took place with the Directors of the Cool Store and officers of the SECV to determine a financial basis for supplying the cool store.
The Councils original terms for supply was not acceptable to the Directors, however, the SECV, which was due to take over the Melbourne Electric Supply Co, agreed to reduce the bulk supply tariff and provide additional capacity. A revised tariff proposal was submitted to the Directors which was to cover the amortised costs of augmenting the supply system for the cool store, as well as the bulk supply and operating costs. By October 1930 an agreement between the Council and the Directors was reached, the cost of consumption being calculated on the basis 5 shillings and 6 pence (55c) per horsepower per month and 1 penny (,8c) per kWh.
Before construction works commenced to increase the capacity of the electricity supply, the Electrician submitted his resignation to the Council. He stayed on until his successor, Mr Archibald Elliot took over the duties and was given a reference under the Seal of the Council, together with a week’s salary in appreciation of his services.
THE ELLIOT ERA
The Era Begins
No history of the Electricity Department would be complete without recording the services given by Mr Archibald J F Elliot and his son Mr A J Raymond Elliot which extended over a period of 33 years. This length of service was a contrast to the first 14 years of electricity supply in Doncaster when 6 Shire Electricians had been appointed since 1916.
Archibald Elliot came to Doncaster in November 1930 after being in charge of the Electricity Supply Undertaking at Heathcote for 15 years. His son, Raymond Elliot later joined the Electricity Department and following the death of his father in 1943, continued as the Shire Electrician. In 1952 his title changed to Shire Electrical Engineer and he held that position until his untimely death in 1963, at the age of 47 years.
This period commenced during the Great Depression when little finance was available for work programs and the purchase of equipment. Archibald Elliot applied for the position of Shire Electrician at a salary of 400 pounds ($800) per annum, which was subject to his providing his own means of transport, pole lifting truck and tools. Although the Council supplied a truck for the previous Electrician, the vehicle was in a bad state of repair and had been declared unroadworthy by the police. Rather than purchase a replacement vehicle, the Electric Light Committee decided that this should be the responsibility of the new Electrician. Before accepting the appointment under these conditions, Mr Elliot stated that he would prefer to be employed on a part-time basis to allow him to work privately as well. This was accepted by the Council.
His first job was to supervise the augmentation of the high voltage mains in Doncaster Road for the connection of supply to the West Doncaster Cool Stores. Tenders were called and a contractor was engaged to rebuild the existing high voltage line along Doncaster Road to the Cool Stores at the comer of Bayley Grove. The metering was installed and the supply connected during February 1931 to become the Council’s major industrial consumer. The Cool Stores, later on, also became the first consumer to have two-rate metering for the supply of electricity at a cheaper tariff from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. of each day.
One of the other initial tasks of the Electrician was to install a light in the telephone cabinet outside the Templestowe Post Office. This was not the first installation of lights, for the telephone cabinets outside Doncaster Post Office, Doncaster East Post Office and at Lauer’s Comer (comer of Doncaster Road and Elgar Road) had lighting connected during the previous year. The Council was not prepared to include Templestowe at that time, because of the lack of use by the small population. The local residents, however, persisted and the Council finally granted approval, but on the condition that the Electrician install a foot-operated switch so that the light could only be turned on when the telephone was in use.
Electricity was now becoming acceptable for other uses in the home. Mrs Serpell wanted to install an electric stove, but thought that the power tariff of 4 pence (3.3c) per kWh was too expensive. Following her request, the Council reduced the rate for stoves to 3 pence (2.5c) per kWh. The SECV had already introduced a two-part tariff which included a fixed room charge per quarter and a reduced rate per kWh. However, the Council was concerned that the cheaper rate for the consumption of electricity may encourage consumers to install electric stoves which would cause the substation transformers to be overloaded. Consequently, the tariffs in Doncaster and Templestowe remained unaltered. Never-the-less, in June 1932, the rate for lighting was reduced from 9 pence (7.5c) to 8 pence (6.6c) per kWh after having received approval from the SECV.
Towards the end of 1932, the Electrician informed the Council that although his salary package was 400 pounds ($800) per annum, his motor truck expenses amounted to at least $100 pounds ($200). He requested Council to review his salary as the truck expenses were higher than he had expected. Much to his surprise, his salary was reduced to 300 pounds ($600) and the truck allowance fixed at 100 pounds ($200). Although he was no better off, he had to accept this decision. These were really hard times as many people were out of work.
During 1933 and 1934 electricity supply was extended in Wetherby Road, Blackburn Road, Templestowe Road and Bulleen Road, together with some local streets in the townships of Doncaster
and Templestowe.
The ratepayers at Warrandyte, however, were still without electric supply. While negotiations were proceeding with the SECV, Mr George Bryant submitted his resignation as Lamp Lighter. His task was to light up the kerosene lamps around Warrandyte each night and to keep them maintained. The Riding Councillors appointed another person to continue these duties until the lamps were replaced with electric lights.
These Councillors, having had discussions with the SECV on the financial arrangements for extending the electricity supply to Warrandyte, sought among the ratepayers a sufficient number of persons to provide an adequate revenue guarantee over 5 years. Later in 1934 and early 1935 several meetings took place between the Councillors and the SECV. By the middle of the year, a list of prospective consumers was completed and handed to the Commission. This initiated the construction of electricity mains from Ringwood. These works were completed in time for the Warrandyte residents to celebrate their first Christmas with electric light. Twelve street lights were also connected, so the Lamp Lighter no longer continued his role.
Many people were affected by the depression and the Electrician reported to the Council that several consumers in the Doncaster and Templestowe schemes had not paid their electricity accounts for over six months. Rather than disconnect them for the non-payment of their accounts, the Electrician was directed by the Council to interview the consumers to establish an arrangement for paying the accounts. Some of the consumers continued to use electricity without making any payments, so the Council subsequently decided that if they did not reduce their consumption by 50%, their supply would be disconnected.
Although times were difficult, the Electric Light Account, which for many years carried an overdraft at the Council's bank, had by 1935, received sufficient revenue to be in credit. However, the Council's General Account was now in overdraft, so the Shire Secretary came to an agreement with the Bank Manager to allow the credit of the Electric Light Account to off-set the debit of the Municipal General Account for the purposes of calculating the interest charges for the overdraft.
Meanwhile, the SECV was still not satisfied with the standard of construction of the Doncaster and Templestowe schemes even though the Electrician had, since 1930, replaced numerous poles. At the
time when the Warrandyte residents were enjoying their newly connected electricity supply, the Electrician received a report from the SECV Inspector listing 356 items found needing attention. As a result, the Council authorised the Electrician to employ another casual labourer, making a part-time workforce of 3, to rectify the deficiencies listed by the Commission. One of the casual employees was the Electrician's son, Ray Elliot, who in his spare time, had studied an Electrical Trade course. The Electrician informed the Council that, as Ray had passed his examination, he was entitled to a wage increase of 1 pound ($2) per week. The Council, in May 1936, agreed to the increase, but on the condition that he worked, in future, on a full time basis.
Most of 1936 and early 1937 was taken up with the reconstruction of the electricity mains in both the Doncaster and Templestowe schemes, the Electrician providing monthly reports on the progress of the works to the Council and the S.E.C.V. These schemes were again inspected by the Commission in 1937, which established another list of faults requiring rectification. More works were necessary, but not without further problems. During a storm, a low voltage power line fell to the ground and killed a horse owned by Mr Lauer. Obviously, being unhappy about the loss of his horse, Mr Lauer made a claim on the Council for compensation. After several discussions with the Shire President, the Council agreed to make an offer of 10 pounds ($20), without prejudice, which was finally accepted.
The Templestowe Brick Co. planned a quarry and brick manufacturing plant in Bulleen Road, but the Council's electricity supply system did not have the capacity to meet the company's load requirements. The Council advised the SECV of its inability to supply the brickworks and informed
the Commission that it had no objection to the City of Heidelberg providing the power* The Government consequently granted an Order-in-Council to Heidelberg for a ten year term to supply the brickworks. This order was later extended for a second ten year period which terminated in 1957.
During the pre-war years 1937 to 1939, a number of cool stores were constructed and electricity supply was needed for the newly acquired refrigeration plants. Some of these were connected to the electricity system on the understanding that the plants could not be used between 7 p.m. mid 1 sum. daily. Other installations were suppled after the owners guaranteed to pay an annual rent of 5 pounds ($10) to the Council to cover the costs of installing on-site substations.
The Directors of the West Doncaster Cool Stores were still concerned about the high costs of operating their refrigeration plant and made several attempts to have the power costs reduced. However, as this relatively high loading on the Council's distribution system resulted in little profit to the Council, no reduction in the tariff could be effected. As a result, for several years, the Cool Stores only used the electricity supply system between January and May when the store was full of fruit and reled on its gas suction engine for the reminder of each year when most of the fruit had already been exported to England or despatched to other cool stores around Australia.
A number of residents were still having difficulties in paying their electricity 'accounts and the regular visits to their homes for collecting payments was becoming very time consuming for the Electrician. The Council, consequently, offered to install prepayment meters to those persons who did not wish to have the electricity cut-off for the non-payment of their accounts. This offer was accepted by several residents and a number of these meters were placed in service during 1939, but only after satisfactory arrangements for the payment of arrears had been negotiated.
Three Phase Supply
In September 1939, when the Second World War was declared, the Electric Light Schemes had during the previous financial year received 4680 pounds ($9,360) in revenue from approximately 500 consumers. The Electric Light Account was in a very healthy state, for it was now 3000 pounds ($6,000) in credit.
The Council was requested by consumers to reduce the tariffs for domestic consumers by either lowering the rates for light and power consumption or adopting a two-part tariff now being applied
by the SECV and the other Municipal Electricity Authorities in the metropolitan area.
Several discussions with the officers of the Commission during 1940 established that, before any change of tariff occurred, the Council should reconstruct the distribution system so as to provide a
three phase supply instead of the existing single phase. The system had not changed since the Council was supplied by the Melbourne Electric Supply Co. in 1916. The high voltage system remained at 4000 volts and the low voltage system served consumers with a single phase 460/230 supply, while those consumers of the SECV and the other Electricity Authorities in the metropolitan area were already connected to a three phase 400/230 volt supply from a 6600 volt high voltage system.
The Council feared that if the tariffs were reduced, the electricity demand from increased usage by consumers would overload the easting distribution system* The Council, therefore, decided to commence a program of converting power supply to a three phase system mid defer reducing the tariffs, as funds were now necessary to install additional conductors, new transformers and switchgear.
The year of 1941 saw the commencement of these works and the conversion to a multiple earth neutral system which was also being carried out conjointly by the SECV and the other Electricity Authorities. This earthing system involved separating the earthing for the high voltage and low
voltage equipment at each substation and the connection of the low voltage neutral conductor to earth at each substation and consumer premises, an extensive program in its own right It was also a time when the Australian Government, having declared its participation in the war, directed the
Council to shield the street lighting to restrict any vision from aircraft, metal screens being supplied to the Electricity Department for this purpose.
The construction works for the three phase system was delayed due to lack of manpower and materials, so the expected changeover on 30 September 1941 did not take place. The Council was concerned about the shortage of manpower as a number of employees had enlisted in the armed forces. At its meeting on 20 December 1941, the Council resolved that, in the event of Mr Ray Elliot being called up for military service, the Council would apply for exemption on the grounds of his occupation of Electrical Mechanic. This was a time when the conversion to the three phase supply and the new earthing system required his skills, particularly for the work of the reconstruction of substations and the changing of wiring and earthing at consumers premises.
A brick substation was constructed in High Street near Doncaster Road, at a cost of 300 pounds ($600) and being opposite the Morning Star Hotel, the substation became known as the Morning Star Substation. The three phase switchgear for receiving a 6,600 volt supply from the SECV, together with underground feeder cables, were planned to be installed by the SECV.
Additional conductors were strung during 1942 and 1943 along Doncaster Road, Mitcham Road, Victoria Street, Blackburn Road and George Street and the local pole-mounted substations prepared for the three phase conversion and the change of the earthing system. Unfortunately, transformers were difficult to obtain as the wartime restrictions placed the manufacture of transformers for conversion purposes on a very low priority. Consequently, the changeover to a three phase supply was to be deferred until after the war.
While these preparation works were continuing, the Electrician, Mr Archibald Elliot suffered an illness and died on 16 July 1943 at the age of 55 years. He was temporarily replaced by his son Mr Ray Elliot pending the appointment of a successor. The position was advertised and seven applications were received. Four of these applicants were interviewed and Mr Ray Elliot was appointed, subject to the approval of the Man-power Department.
The appointment did not finish there, for the Council received a letter from the Returned Soldiers and Sailors Imperial League of Australia (RSL), Doncaster Branch, to receive a deputation
protesting against the decision of the Council appointing a non-soldier to fill the position of Electrician.
This deputation was received by the Council on 12 October 1943. However, another group of ratepayers, knowing of this deputation, also attended the meeting and presented their support for
Mr Elliot. Both sides stated their points of view, the RSL claiming that three of the applicants were returned soldiers of the 1914-18 war, while the group of ratepayers explained the circumstances why
Mr Elliot was unable to enlist. After receiving the deputations, the Council requested the RSL representatives to withdraw their objection. Later in the month, the RSL informed the Council "that in view of information gathered at the deputation, this Branch raises no further objection in connection with this particular appointment".
So the complication was resolved and the appointment of Mr Elliot was finally accepted. At the request of Mr Elliot, the position was changed to a part-time appointment with the right of private
practice. Like his father, the appointment required Mm to provide his own pole lifting truck, but the annual allowance was increased from 100 pounds ($200) to 150 pounds ($300).
In the first report to the Council as Electrician, Ray commented on the 21 October 1943: "In
reporting on the electrical scheme in this Shire, I would first like to mention that it is only since the Undertaking became financial that a general overhaul has begun. Since then, all main lines throughout the Shire have been re-poled and in many parts suitable conductors have been installed. Transformer platforms have been rebuilt and transformers used to better advantage. To all work of recent years, due consideration and ample provision has been made for future loading. Numerous other changes have been made, and although bad localities still exist, I am of the opinion that, in comparison with other electric supplies, our scheme is in the main fairly satisfactory". This comment indicated that the Electrician was very sensitive of the criticisms about certain inadequacies of the
In April 1944, the Council received a petition signed by 77 ratepayers requesting a reduction in the cost of electricity for light and power. Discussions were held with officers of the SECV, during which, it was agreed that the tariffs should not be reduced because this may encourage consumers to use more electricity, at a time when there were electricity restrictions due to the State’s limited generation capacity.
Electricity supply was still not available for ratepayers in some parts of the municipality. People living in Thompsons Road, Bulleen made continuous enquiries to the Council and two consumers in Church Road, Doncaster wanted to connect their electric stoves, one of these having purchased the stove 3 years beforehand. Materials were difficult to obtain so Council was unable to meet the wishes of these ratepayers.
In February 1945, the Council approached the SECV to assist with the purchasing of materials to recommence the program of changing over to a three phase system. The Electrician also obtained CounciTs approval to employ an electrical linesman to add to the existing workforce of two.
The Pacific War was nearing the end, when the Council received permission from the Federal
Electricity Controller to purchase bare copper conductor and transformers in May 1945. Electricity funds had been invested in ’Victory” War Loans, so the Council negotiated with its bankers for finance to proceed with the electrical works.
The conversion to three phase also involved Council having to make arrangements to rewire single phase motors at 11 cool stores and a foundry. In June 1945, the Electrician was authorised to have these effected when the conversion took place.
Now that the conversion program was under way, officers of the SECV negotiated with Mr G F
Wright, City Electrical Engineer of the Box HiM City Council, for Doncaster to have a temporary connection to that Council's 6,600 volt three phase system in Mitcham Road near Chippewa Avenue.
The Pacific War had finished in September 1945, when the Council had 712 consumers and a revenue of 7,587 pounds ($15,174) from the electricity sales. Many ratepayers were now requesting the extension of electricity to their homes, but several were informed that it would be many months
before supply was available became of the more important works of conversion to three phase.
At the end of 1945, the authority of the Federal Electricity Controller had been revoked so the only restrictions now were the availability of materials from their suppliers. The lack of materials, however, were to become another obstacle for the conversion program.
In January 1946, the Shire Electrician’s salary was increased to 567 pounds ($1,134) and he was appointed a full time officer. His truck allowance had been withdrawn as the Council purchased a pole lifting truck from the Army Disposals during the previous October. However, he was paid an allowance for the use of his car for Council purposes.
The conversion to three phase commenced during April 1946 when Mitcham Road and part of Doncaster Road were connected to the Box Hill supply. This conversion continued during the year
along Blackburn Road, George Street, Victoria Street, Wetherby Road and Doncaster Road from Blackburn Road to Church Road.
Now that the electricity system had an adequate capacity for load growth, the Council had discussions with the SECV for the introduction of the two-part electricity tariff for domestic consumers and a tariff reduction for commercial and industrial consumers. As a result, the two-part tariff was introduced for existing consumers who wanted this option and for aU new consumers after 1 October 1946. Instead of the ordinary rates of 7 pence (5.83c) per kWh for light and 4 pence (3.33c) per kWh for power, the two-part tariff would be 1 shilling and 5 pence (14.16c) per room per month plus an energy change of 1.4 pence (1.16c) per kWh. For commercial and industrial consumers, lighting was reduced to 6 pence per kWh (5c) and power reduced to 3 pence per kWh
(2.5c) for the first 50 kWh with a sliding scale for additional consumption. The tariff for "off peak" hot water heating was reduced form .45 pence (.37c) to .35 pence (.29c) per kWh.
This stage of the three phase conversion was extended to Doncaster township in May 1947 and to West Doncaster Cool Store during April 1948. The conversion program had nearly reached the proposed Morning Star substation when the Council completed the negotiations with the SECV for the installation of electrical switchgear and cables for the taking of supply from this substation
instead of the temporary connection in Mitcham Road from the City of Box HiU Electricity Department. The SECV, unfortunately, was involved with extensive work programs throughout the State and could not commence works at the substation for some time.
During 1948, while waiting for the completion of this substation, additional conductors were placed along King Street, Tuckers Road and Serpells Road in preparation for the three phase conversion of Templestowe township. The Glen Iris Brick Co was planning the establishment of a quarry and brickworks in Templestowe Road. In view of the Council's difficulty in providing the expected load, the Council allowed the City of Heidelberg to supply the brickworks similarly to that previously given for the Templestowe Brickworks Co.
In an attempt to rationalise its electricity supply operations, the Council, in August 1948, decided to amalgamate the Doncaster and Templestowe Schemes which had been separately costed since their inception. The Council also decided that loan funding would be necessary to continue with the conversion program and other future works as the bank overdraft was increasing. In Februaiy 1949, a loan of 2,500 pounds ($5,000) was obtained for this purpose, the first for many years, and the SECV commenced the installation switchgear, transformers and cables at the Morning Star substation. During August 1949, the three phase 6,600 volt supply was connected to Doncaster Road which enabled the temporary connection from the City of Box Hill at Mitcham Road to be disconnected. The original 4,000 volt bulk supply was also transferred to the new Morning Star substation pending the completion of the conversion programs. This allowed the timber building of the original substation, known as the Meter House, to be removed as it had been sold to the Templestowe Bowling Club for 20 pounds ($40).
Little progress had been made towards the conversion of the Templestowe area. In addition to electrical materials being difficult to acquire, the Council was unable to attract sufficient linesmen and labourers to assist with the work programs. These positions were advertised on many occasions, however, it was a time of full employment and limited residential accommodation in or near the municipality. Consequently, the existing work crews had to continue working to their limit.
The SECV was also experiencing difficulties in providing sufficient generating capacity for the State's growing electrical load. The year of 1950 saw the commencement of a rapid growth in the State's industrial and commercial activities as well as the construction of new homes. This resulted in the necessity for power restrictions and blackouts occurring for a number of years. The State's electricity tariffs were also increased annually to provide funds towards the expansion of the Commission's supply systems.
Although Doncaster and Templestowe's growth was not as rapid as other localities, due to the lack of public transport, residential development began to accelerate. Nevertheless, the growth rate was 10% per annum and this placed an increased burden on the limited workforce as the conversion program had yet to be completed and the increased loading from the consumer growth was causing difficulties in providing an adequate supply of electricity for the existing consumers.
Many complaints were being received as a result of an insufficient supply of electricity causing lighting and household appliances not to function satisfactorily. The Templestowe Progress Association expressed the annoyance of members at the lack of performance of the Council's Electricity Department and suggested that the Council should hand the operations over to the
SECV.
The Council did not have the resources to meet the demands of consumers. Employment of linesmen continued to be difficult and by 1952 the Electrician, Mr EMot,reported to the Council that
he had not been able to take Ms annual leave for 5 years due to the workload. It was not uncommon for the Eliot family to take after-hours telephone cals at their home whle Mr Eliot was restoring electricity supply, particularly during storms. The Councl realising the difficulty of the position, decided to pay the Electrician for 3 years of Ms annual leave and to alow the balance of 2 years to be accumulated and taken "when a senior man can take responsibility”.
In an effort to aleviate the increase of loading, the Councl discouraged the connection of electric stoves and informed a number local orchardists that their newly instaled cool stores could not be provided with electricity for a considerable time.
The State Government had earler informed the Councl of the establishment of the Municipal Electrical Engineers Board. This Board advised the Councl of the qualifications necessary for the principal officer of each Municipal Electricity Undertaking. In September 1952, Mr Elliot's title was changed from Shire Electrician to that of SMre Electrical Engineer.
Early 1953 saw the preparation of High St and the local streets of Templestowe for the anticipated conversion to three phase, a contractor having been engaged to give support to the work program.
However, some of the workforce was also alocated for the provision of supply to a number of cool stores wMch was now urgently required for the coming fruit picking season.
The residents of Templestowe were still waiting for the improved supply of electricity and not being
satisfied with the progress of the conversion works, made a formal complaint to the CMef Electrical Inspector of Victoria. Although the Council had breached the obligations of maintaining the voltage levels determined under its Order in Council, part of the consumers1 supply difficulties were caused by the Commission's own limitations brought about by the overloaded transmission system serving
the Council's bulk supply substation.
The conversion program was becoming more complicated as new consumers were being connected to
the supply system. However, works were finally completed and Templestowe was converted to three phase in July 1954, foEowed by Lower Templestowe during November and December of that year.
It was now 13 years since the program commenced in 1941, the total number of customers of the Council having increased to 1402. The whole of the original 4000 volt system had been converted to a 6600 volt system.
Supply to Subdivisions
Before 1950, Doncaster and Templestowe escaped the rapid development that was occurring in the adjoining suburbs of Box HiU and Heidelberg, mainly due to there being no railway in the vicinity.
More people were now owning motor veMeles, so the need for pubhc transport was becoming less essential.
Many properties along the major roads, such as Doncaster Road, Manningham Road and Thompsons
Road were still being used as orchards for fruit growing and there were few residential land subdivisions.
Land development was beginning to take place and houses erected. At that time, properties could be subdivided without fuH road construction or the services of electricity, gas, telephones and sewerage. Consequently, many homes were ready for occupancy before electricity supply was available due to the Council not having adequate funds for the extension. Loan finance was stiH restricted by Government policy and the Council's bank overdraft was rapidly increasing.
In an endeavour to overcome the shortage of funds, the Council implemented alternative policies to obtain finance for electricity extensions. For established subdivisions, the Council requested a home owner or group of home owners to advance to the Council a payment based on the number of poles to be instaHed. This advance was for the period between 2 and 5 years from the completion of such extensions, during wMch time, the Council would refund to the contributors a proportionate amount for each pole used to supply new consumers connected within the period. In 1953, the advance was based on 20 pounds ($40) per pole extension and this was increased to 30 pounds ($60) during the
Doncaster / lemplsstowa tHistorical Society
foEowing year. The CouncE also decided that for future subdivisions, the land developer should pay a non-refundable contribution towards the cost of each electrical extension. Alternatively, the extension could be constructed by private contract and handed over to the CouncE upon completion.
Land subdivisions were now increasing and a number of ratepayers in Park Orchards were also requesting a supply of electricity. Realising the technical difficulties of extending to this locality, the CouncE decided to aUow the SECV to reticulate electricity eastwards of MuEum MuEum Creek.
During 1955, the CouncE's linesmen and assistants made requests to improve their working conditions, these including an increase in wages to match the employees of the SECV, 3 weeks annual leave and provision of protective clothing. Negotiations continued into 1956, when the CouncE agreed to pay the SECV rates of pay, but not the requests for additional annual leave or protective clothing.
The year of 1956 brought about the Olympic Games in Melbourne and the introduction of television
in Australia. Although not as significant, a number of events for the Electricity Department of the CouncE also occurred during that year. These included:
The adoption of the SECV tariffs appHcable for smaller towns and rural areas.
The installation of sodium vapour street Eghts at road intersections, the first being at the comer of Anderson Street and James Street, Templestowe.
The commencement of weekly patrols of street Eghting.
The installation and commissioning by the SECV of a bulk supply substation WD in Kingsnorth Street, West Doncaster to meet the increased loading of the CouncE's electricity supply system and replacing the Morning Star substation.
By the end of 1956, there were 2000 consumers and the CouncE revenue had increased to 78,000 pounds ($156,000). The loading on the system was increasing and, now that capacity was available from the new SECV bulk supply substation, additional high voltage feeders could be instaEed.
A number of dairying properties in BuEeen were being subdivided for housing development and the
temporaiy supply to Templestowe and Glen Iris Brick Companies from the City of Heidelberg was to terminate during the foEowing year. There was, consequently, a need to instaE a new 6600 volt feeder to supply the BuEeen and Lower Templestowe areas.
Copper conductors had been used for aE high voltage and low voltage electricity mains. However, the price of copper cable was increasing rapidly and placed a further stress on the Counefl’s limited funds. This increase in price was creating another difficulty, for the cable had become so valuable that it was now being stolen. Approximately 700 metres of cable had been taken from poles in
Pinnacle Crescent, BuEeen during the progress of construction. Cable was also stolen from other sites and the Electricity Depot at the Shire HaE. (*The Depot was relocated to the present site on Heidelberg-Warrandyte Road during 1958).
On one occasion, the poEce charged a person for the theft of copper from the Depot store. He was placed on baE to appear at the Court of General Sessions, Heidelberg at a later date. Unfortunately, the accused did not attend the hearing. It was subsequently established that he was serving a sentence in the Adelaide Gaol for another offence, so the charge was withdrawn.
The alternative of using aluminium conductors, instead of copper, was now being contemplated, as they were considerably cheaper than copper. For some time, the Electrical Engineer had been
concerned about the technical difficulties of connecting aluminium to the existing copper conductors. However, as appropriate clamps were now available for this purpose, he decided that it was time to use aluminium conductors for high voltage mains where electrical connections were minimal.
As a consequence, the first use of aluminium conductors was the installation from Kingsnorth Street along Ayr Street to Manningham Road for the augmentation of the high voltage supply to Bulleen and Lower Templestowe. The Electrical Engineer, in his report to the Council, advised that the cost of the installation was only half of that for copper conductors.
While these works were being carried out, the Council was having discussions with the City of Heidelberg relating to the purchase of the high voltage mains supplying the Templestowe and Glen
Iris Brick Companies as these assets were owned by that Council. Although the changeover date was acceptable to both parties, there was no agreement on the price that Doncaster should pay for
them. Following further discussions between the Councils, the assets were transferred on the 25th February 1957, subject to their value being determined by an arbitrator. Agreement was finally reached 2 years later.
New homes were now being constructed at a rapid rate following the subdivision of land. At the end of 1958, the number of consumers had reached 3000 and the annual load growth rate was now 20%. This increase on the electricity supply system kept the workforce constantly involved in building new substations and installing larger high voltage and low voltage mains. These work programs were supported by the use of contractors.
Although the population was increasing, very few street lights had been installed. As a consequence, the Council had received a great deal of criticism from ratepayers and the Victorian Traffic Commission about this lack of lighting. The Council's first action was to provide all night lighting which before 1st March 1958, had been switched off at 1 am as an economy measure initiated during the post-war electricity restrictions. Although limited by finance, this was followed up by accelerated annual programs of installing street lights along the main roads and the streets of new subdivisions in an attempt to overcome the deficiency.
The Electrical Engineer regularly attended the meeting of the Metropolitan Electricity Supply Authorities (MESA) which were represented by officers of the SECV and the Municipal Electrical Engineers. From 1958 various matters relating to the electrical installation of premises were discussed at the meetings as part of the review of the SECV Wiring Regulations prior to their implementation in 1961. A sub-committee was also reviewing the Electric Supply and Construction Regulations.
Discussions relating to these pending Regulations led to the introduction of new products and
practices for use by the Electricity Authorities. These included:
The development of a drum type termination for the newly acquired plastic and butyl rubber aerial service cables.
. The design of a bracket for securing aerial service cables to pole crossarm braces to
eliminate the need for mounting additional brackets on to poles.
The introduction of fused mains connection boxes for the connection of aerial service cables to the electrical wiring within consumers premises.
The introduction of under-verandah junction boxes for servicing of shopping centres.
The development of a standard design and method of servicing and charging for builders temporary supply poles.
Discussions at the MESA meetings also led to:
A uniform set of conditions for the supply of electricity to consumers by the Electricity Authorities.
The standardisation of locations of electricity meters on customer premises.
The introduction of the 2 x 20 watt fluorescent street lamp to replace the 100 watt incandescent lamps.
. The commencement of the "Joint Use" of electricity poles with the Postmaster General's
Department (now Telecom) to eliminate the need of separate poles for telephone services.
As a result of further standardisation, Doncaster and Templestowe like the other Municipal Electricity Undertakings, had its Order-m-Councils amended on the 1st October 1961 when the declared voltage within Victoria was changed from 230 volts to 240 volts.
The load growth was increasing and the Electrical Engineer, realising the limitation of the supply system, made arrangements with the SECV to provide additional capacity from the Commission's 6600 volt bulk supply substation WD and to transfer the supply from the Council's "Morning Star" substation in High street to the SECV substation. He also initiated the planning of a 22,000 volt bulk supply substation to serve the East Doncaster and Donvale areas. This paved the way for the subsequent installation by the SECV of a second point of supply for the Municipality.
The Bulleen Progress Association had been critical of the tariffs charged and the performance of the Electricity Department. This was based on the. SECV's Rural Tariffs which were considerably higher than the Metropolitan Tariffs for the neighbouring Municipalities of Camberwell and Heidelberg. Following earlier advice from the SECV, the Council informed the Association that the SECV would apply the same tariffs as the Council, for the Commission also considered the Municipality to be generally a rural area. In reply to other criticisms, the Association was advised that as the Council, through its Electric Supply Committee was more accessible to ratepayers, the connection of new homes to the electricity supply and the handling of complaints were more prompt than the SECV. The Council also assured the Association that the borrowing powers for electric supply purposes did not interfere with the Council's General Loan program and that the Electric Supply Loan repayments were met by the Undertaking and were not a charge on the Council's General Account.
However, the matter did not finish there. In answer to further criticisms and a demand that the Electricity Undertaking should be sold, the Council on the 21st August 1961 supported the following statement, prepared by the Electric Supply Committee, for the publication in the local newspapers so as to defend its position:
LOAN FUNDS
The State co-ordinator of Works confirms that the moneys raised for the purpose of Electric Supply Works is a separate allocation and does not in any way affect the Loan Council allocation of loan funds for roads and other Shire Works.
OFFICE SPACE
Over the past two years the amount of 7,000 pounds ($14,000) from Electric Supply profits has already been placed in a Special Purpose Account to help provide for future Shire Office extensions. At the present time the Electric Supply Department occupies less than 300 square feet of office space and at a meeting on the 16 May, 1961, it was determined that the
Undertaking be charged a rental by the Council,.
VOLTAGE DROPS.
It is unfortunate that variations of voltage are part of all electrical installations and this is common to S.E.C. and all other undertakings. Continual planning is necessary to keep this problem at a very minimum and it must be appreciated that in newly developing areas this problem is more acute than in solidly built up areas.
The Committee has received very few complaints of low voltage and whenever such
complaints have been received they have been investigated and remedied wherever possible.
TARIFFS
To clarify the framing of tariff as applicable to an area, the following extract from a letter by the S.E.C. to a Progress Association within this Shire is given.
"The tariff grading of a centre is related to the cost of supplying consumers in the area, which in turn is affected by the consumer density. Although this is not the only factor concerned, it is of considerable importance having regard to its influence on the cost of distribution, operation and maintenance, meter reading and other such administrative expenses. Centres which are to quality for the metropolitan tariff, therefore, should at least have a consumer density similar to that within the metropolitan tariff area - at present more than 1,500 dwellings per square mile overall - and also be contiguous with that area on a broad front."
It is of some interest that in this same letter the S.E.C. makes this statement:-
"If we were now retailing the supply in the Bulleen area, the domestic and commercial tariffs would be the same as those now available from the Shire".
In the event of the Undertaking being taken over by the State Electricity Commission therefore, there could not be a saving of 4/6d (45 cents) in the pound ($2).
Tariff Reduction
The tariff applicable to the consumers of this area is an annual consideration by the Electric Supply Committee. This matter receives priority over all other economic matters in a gradual reduction to Metropolitan Tariffs.
Consideration is now being given to the possibility of adopting the lower Extra Metropolitan
Rate. This is the only tariff which may be possible under the present consumer density. The adoption of the Extra Metropolitan Tariff would result in a saving of l/8d. (16.6 cents) in the pound ($2) or 8-1/3% on domestic accounts.
S.E.C. TAKEOVER
It is the considered opinion of the Electric Supply Committee that to dispose of this valuable asset would not be economically sound. An illustration of this is a glance at the profits made
by the following Undertakings in the year 1959/60.
Coburg 35,436 pounds ($70,872)
Brunswick 77,801 pounds ($155,602)
Footscray 189,276 pounds ($378,552)
Heidelberg 15,521 pounds ($31,042)
Melbourne 90,700 pounds ($181,400)
Port Melbourne 20,166 pounds ($40,332)
Preston 70,487 pounds ($140,974)
WiMamstown 54,583 pounds ($109,166)
gives some idea of our future potentialities, such profits can be used to finance additional Shire Works.
Although the Council had given support for the Electricity Undertaking, the continued public criticisms had an adverse effect on the morale of the staff who were giving their best efforts, with the limited resources, to provide a service to electricity consumers.
The CoundTs inability to reduce the retail tariff was not only due to the lower consumer density, it
was also brought about by the bulk supply tariffs of the SECV.
Unlike the other Municipal Electricity Undertakings, Doncaster and Templestowe was serving mostly domestic consumers for there were only a small number of commercial and industrial customers. The bulk supply tariff was charged on both the energy consumption and the maximum demand for each calendar month. With predominantly domestic consumers, the maximum demand usually occurred at 6 p.m. during the winter season and at midnight during the summer period. These maximum demands were being accentuated by the SECV's promotion of electric ranges and "off peak" hot water services in competition with the Gas and Fuel Corporation of Victoria* The absence of commercial and industrial consumers resulted in the Council not receiving sufficient revenue to provide funds for operating costs and a reasonable profit margin after paying the SECV bulk supply charges for the energy purchased.
However, all the Municipal Electricity Undertakings were subjected to increased bulk purchase costs brought about by the Commission increasing bulk supply tariffs to recover the additional revenue gained from the increases of retail tariffs during 1956 and 1958. These tariff increases were for the purpose of the Commission obtaining funds for capital works in the Latrobe Valley, with no allowances for the increased distribution costs of the Electricity Undertakings.
On several occasions during 1960 and 1961, the Electrical Engineer discussed the situation with
Officers of the SECV. The Council also presented a deputation to the Minister for Electrical Undertakings, but without any success.
Following these discussions, the Electrical Engineer presented a report to the Council on the financial situation, caused by the increased bulk supply tariff, together with information he had received of the Commission's intended acquisition of the Electricity Undertakings by transfer of trusteeship. As result, the Council decided to host a conference of the eleven metropolitan Municipal Electricity Supply Authorities to discuss the bulk supply tariff as well as the method of compensation proposed for the purchase of the Electricity Undertakings, if compulsorily acquired.
This conference took place at Doncaster on the 18th July 1962 when the Electrical Engineer explained the difficulties with the bulk supply tariff and the basis of acquisition as planned by the Commission. After general discussion, the representatives agreed that the proposed transfer of the Undertakings to the SECV was unacceptable and that steps be taken to ensure that bulk supply tariffs should be of a nature to enable all Undertakings to continue operating with a reasonable surplus. The meeting, also decided to engage a Queen's Counsel to give an opinion on the legality of the transfer of trusteeship as this proposal of the Commission did not recognise the Councils' equity in their Electricity Undertakings. The Electrical Engineers of the Councils were also asked to prepare a suggested bulk supply tariff schedule for submission to a further conference of the Municipalities.
While these actions were in progress, Doncaster and Templestowe Council on the 27th November 1962 in answer to consumer demands, finally agreed to adopt the SECV Intermediate Tariff. However, this decision was followed by another letter from the BuUeen Progress Association suggesting that the Electricity Undertaking could be sold to the SECV as the resultant funds could be applied to other Council programs and requested the Council "to investigate the possibility and likely terms of such a sale”. The letter also included information the Association had obtained from the Minister for Electrical Undertakings who had apparently stated "As regards the Doncaster Undertaking, the Commission would be happy to enter into discussions with the Council with a view of submitting an offer for acquisition of the Electricity Supply Undertaking if the Council were to indicate its interest in disposing of the Undertaking".
Early in 1963, the SECV arranged a tour of projects of the Snowy Mountains Hydro Electricity Authority in conjunction with a regular meeting of representatives of the Metropolitan Electricity Supply Authorities (MESA). The Electrical Engineer, Mr Hay Eliot, obtained approval from the Council to join the tour. It was to the repet of the Council and Ms felow Electrical Engineers, that Mr Elliot died at Khancoban on the 1st March 1963 while visiting that town. His death was unexpected and having initiated the Conference of the Municipal Electricity Undertakings to defend the future of Local Government in the Electricity Supply Industry, he did not live to know the outcome of the Queen's Counsel's legal opinion or the investigation into the bulk supply tariff
The Council, at the meeting, of the 12th March 1963, paid a tribute to the faithful service given by
Mr Elliot over 32 years and, in particular, his role as Electrical Engineer for 20 years. However, on the 26th March 1963, the Council after much debate, directed the Shire Secretary to write to the SECV "indicating that Council, without prejudice, is prepared to give consideration to a reasonable offer for the takeover of the Electricity Supply Department and its assets". This was not only the end of the Elliot Era, but the future of the Electricity Undertaking was now in doubt.
THE TURBULENT YEARS
Mr Basil Bird, the Deputy Electrical Engineer of the City of Box Hill, acted as the Electrical Engineer following the death of Mr Elliot. At the meeting of the Council in April 1968 he was formally appointed to this position.
At this time there were 6,100 consumers and a workforce of only 8 employees. The consumer growth was now approaching 1,000 new house connections per annum mid large areas of land were being subdivided for residential development.
An additional 6,600 volt feeder to supply Doncaster from the SECV bulk supply substation WD had to be constructed as well as preparatory works for the conversion of Doncaster East and Donvale for the proposed installation of a new 22,000 volt supply. Added to this program was installation of 350 new street lamps which had been promised to ratepayers.
The Electrical Engineer sought approval to increase the workforce, employ contractors and purchase additional vehicles to commence a vast program of works. The Council having already advised the SECV that it would be prepared to consider the Commission's takeover of the Electricity Supply Department also realised that it had an obligation to meet the demands of its ratepayers. Consequently, the Electrical Engineer was granted approval to provide the resources for carrying out the works programs.
The Council, at a meeting in May 1963, received the legal advice from the Queen's Counsel relating to the SECV proposal of acquisition of Electrical Undertakings by a transfer of trusteeship. This advice indicated that the Commission's proposal had no legal basis, for the Orders-in-Council held by the Municipality were interminable and any transfer of the assets would require a poll of ratepayers as they were the owners of the Undertaking. The legal advice also stated that a sale of the Undertaking could be at a current valuation of the assets and include an amount for goodwill based on prospective profits. Having considered the legal opinion, the Council directed the Electrical Engineer to take steps to value the assets of the Electricity Supply Department.
Replying to the Council's earlier request, the SECV forwarded its offer for the takeover of the
Electricity Supply Department in July 1963. The offer was on the basis of a transfer of trusteeship, however, in the circumstances, the Commission was prepared to offer an acquisition price based on the book value of the assets of the Department. Having considered the advice received from the
Queen's Counsel, the Council informed the Commission that any decision would be deferred until the Council had the opportunity of considering a report on the valuation of the assets being prepared by the Electrical Engineer.
The winter of 1963 was a torrid time for the Electrical Engineer. Not only being faced with an extensive work program with limited resources, the electricity demand had increased from 7420 kW in 1962 to 9380kW. This increase in consumer loading resulted in the Electricity Department
receiving numerous low voltage complaints from ratepayers caused by the inadequacy of the electricity supply for their household needs.
Mr Bird became ill during August 1963, and realising the pressure he was under, the Council granted him leave of absence for one month and approved the appointment of a Deputy Electrical Engineer to support him. Mr Graeme Andersen was appointed to this position during the following October.
Having gone through a difficult period of meeting consumer loadings during the winter of 1963, a program of works was prepared for completion before May 1964. Council gave approval for the Electricity Supply Department to borrow 85,000 pounds ($170,000) mainly to construct 35 substations and extend the high voltage supply system. The program also included the construction of a workshop, store and meter test room at the Electricity Depot to meet the resources needed to carry out the extensive works programs. A tractor mounted borer/pole erector and other plant were also purchased for the first time.
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The work programs were progressively completed by the workforce, which by early 1964 had increased to 20 employees, with support from contract labour. During this time, the Electrical Engineer and Deputy Electrical Engineer were, in additional to their normal duties, preparing a valuation of the assets of the Electricity Supply Department.
The first stage of the conversion of the 6,600 volt system to 22,000 volts was completed during May
1964 when 13 new substations were installed together with a temporary 22,000/6,600 volt substation located on the Donvale Reserve. This temporary substation enabled several 6,600 volt substations in Doncaster East and Donvale to be transferred from the existing 6600 volt feeders and overcame many of the complaints of low voltage that had been received from consumers.
Other works programs were continuing. The lighting along the main roads was becoming inadequate for the increased traffic use. As a temporary measure, the Council approved of the purchase of 300 - 80 watt fluorescent street lights, however, in view of the massive workload, these were installed by additional contract labour.
The valuation of the assets of the Electricity Supply Department had now been completed which established that the current value was 572,436 pounds ($1,144,872) after allowing for depreciation. This was considerably in excess of the book value of 443,907 pounds ($887,814). Having considered the legal opinion from the Queen's Counsel, in October 1964, the Council engaged a firm of Accountants to determine a value of goodwill for the Department, should it be sold.
Following the meeting of Councillor representatives of the Metropolitan Municipality Electricity Supply Authorities, the Electrical Engineers of the Authorities prepared a report during 1964
relating to the bulk supply tariffs charged by the SECV. The report concluded that, as the Electricity Supply Undertakings originated as business ventures financed by, and established in the interests of ratepayers of the municipalities, each Council was entitled to a reasonable return on its investment. However, from examination and comparison of the relative Councils' bulk supply tariffs, it appeared that they were not based on actual cost, but more to limit the financial stability of the Undertakings. This was substantiated by all retail tariff increases in 1956 and 1958 being totally absorbed by the increase of bulk supply tariffs and also that, over a period of ten years, the cost of bulk purchases had doubled while the margin available to the Councils had decreased. The Electrical Engineers recommended that the Councils should approach the Chairman of the SECV, seeking a review of the bulk supply tariffs and requesting the details of costs and method of application of the bulk supply tariffs. This report and the legal opinion was discussed by the Council representatives which led to the formation of the Association of Municipal Electricity Authorities to protect the rights of the 11 member Councils supplying electricity to ratepayers in the metropolitan area. This was later to become the Local Government Electricity Supply Association (Victoria) Inc.
By the end of 1964, the Council realised the value of retaining the Electricity Supply Department. Consequently, the Council requested the SECV to place a value on the Commission's distribution assets in the area of Park Orchards which was covered by the Council's Order No. 119, so that the Council could enter into negotiations for their purchase.
In January 1965, the SECV introduced Uniform Tariffs throughout Victoria. This action further strained the relationship that had developed between the Council and the SECV. When announcing the Uniform Tariff to the Council during 1964, the Commission indicated that the Council would not be compensated for the loss of revenue brought about by the tariff charge. This advice was given just after the Commission had given the Council approval to change from Rural Tariffs to Intermediate Tariffs. A number of Councillors believed that the Commission would have known about the impending change to Uniform Tariff policies at the time of granting approval for the Council's change of tariff and that in allowing the reduction, the Council lost the benefit of compensation that it would have had if the decision to transfer to the Intermediate Tariff had not taken place. This confirmed some Councillors belief that the Commission was attempting to force the Council out of business.
On the 14th of May 1965, the Chairman of the SECV informed the Councils of the Commission's final stage of the integration of the Victorian electricity supply system and advised that having
introduced the Uniform State-wide Tariffs, the Commission's finances should be strengthened by the transfer to it of the Metropolitan Municipal Supply Undertakings. He stated that the Government would look favourably upon the acquisition of the Undertakings by amicable negotiation and hoped to achieve this objective within 10 years. The basis for the acquisition would be at book value, with the Commission taking over the interest and principal payments on the Council's outstanding loans. Payment to the Councils would be by the issue of Commission inscribed stock or debentures. Doncaster and Templestowe was the first Council to be acquired.
Having considered the acquisition, the Council beieved the basis of compensation was unacceptable and decided that the best method of defence was to attack. Consequently, on the 10th of June 1985, the Council responded by instructing its Solicitor "to prepare a Writ calling on the SECY to show cause why it should not vacate the area of land at Park Orchards served by the Commission and covered by Council's Order-m-CounciT.
In July 1965, the employees of the Electricity Supply Department demanded an improvement in their working conditions even though they were receiving the same rates of pay as the employees of
the SECY. The Council had received a Log of Claims from the Electrical Trades Union for the purpose of the Council entering into an Agreement relating to employees' working conditions.
The Council had consulted with the Victorian Employers Federation and the neighbouring Councils
of Box Hill and Heidelberg, which also operated Electricity Undertakings. Conjointly, they decided to pay a Council margin of 5% above the wages paid to equivalent SECY employees, but would not depart from the Metal Trades Award to enter into any separate Agreement with the Union. Although most of the claims by the Union had been met by the Council, a period of industrial unrest began to disturb the progress of the work programs during the latter months of that year.
The unrest climaxed when the Council terminated the services of an employee. This initiated a strike by the remaining employees lasting for 8 days. Following a hearing before the Commonwealth Conciliation and Arbitration Commission, the remaining employees returned to work, but the unrest continued. During January 1966, 4 of the employees walked off a work site in Templestowe without completing the works and were dismissed as a result of their neglect of duty. The workforce had now been reduced from 22 employees to 12, the additional losses being due to other employees resigning. From this time, the relations between employees and the Council began to improve. The employees accepted the conditions of employment adopted by the Council and progressively an atmosphere of trust in working relationships was developed. This trust continued for many years.
The consumer load growth was now 25% per annum and the maximum demand reached 16,600 kilowatts during June 1966. There were 10,000 consumers being supplied from 156 substations, 92 of these having been reconstructed during the previous 6 years. The workforce was being reestablished and their productivity had increased dramatically to meet the works programs. By the
end of 1966, the remaining area of Donvale had been converted to 22,000 volt and the 22,000/6,600 volt transformation substation had been removed. Works continued early in 1967 for the conversion of other areas to 22,000 volts and the construction of new 6600 volt substations to meet the consumer growth. Land subdivisions were also being extended with electricity supply using contract labour.
It was on the 28 February that the Shire of Doncaster was proclaimed a City, so the earlier rural image had now been lost. The year, however, resolved one of the disputes between the Council and the SECV. Although the 22,000 volt supply was connected in 1964, the Council refused to sign an
Agreement with the SECV or apply for an Order in Council for the portion of the Council's feeder situated within the City of Box Hill. The Council objected to the Commission not allowing the installation of transformation substations for the 22,000 volt conversion program and also to the
Imitation of the period of the Order in Council to 10 years. After much discussion, the Commission amended the Agreement to allow transformation substations subject to approval being granted for each particular case, but would not extend the period of time for the Order in Council.
A conference was held with the Chairman of the SECV, but a stalemate had been reached. The
Council was concerned about the possibility of the Commission acquiring the assets within the area
of the proposed Order-imCouneil at the end of ten years. However, the Commission was not prepared to provide the Council with a second 22000 volt feeder until the Council accepted the Agreement and applied for the Order-imCouncIL
The winter of 1967 presented several anxious moments for the City Electrical Engineer. Many consumers were now connected to the 22,000 volt system and if a failure had occurred, there were no means of providing an alternative source of electricity supply. The Council was concerned about the long term future of the Electricity Department but the short term consequences were becoming more critical. Consequently the Council, in November 1967, decided to inform the Commission that it was prepared to seal the Agreement and apply for the Order-in-CounciL This action paved the way for the installation of the second 22,000 volt feeder and the alternative source of supply.
Mr Bird's health had deteriorated over several months, so he advised the Council of his intended resignation as the City Electrical Engineer. In his final report to the Council on the 18th December 1967, Mr Bird summarised the activities of the Electricity Department during the year and stated that the system was capable of coping with further load development, provided that adequate finance was available. The Council expressed its appreciation of his dedicated service during a very difficult period and wished him a quick recovery to good health.
FROM ORCHARDS TO SUBURBIA
Hie Growth Continues
Mr Graeme Andersen was appointed City Electrical Engineer on the 18th December 1967 having acted in this position during the illness of Mr Bird.
There were now 11,500 consumers and the load growth demanded the continuation of the intensive program of works. 21 substations were being converted to 22,000 volts and 10 new 22,000 volt substations were to be completed before the coming winter.
Hie SECV had completed the installation of equipment at the bulk supply substation WD so a supply at 11,000 volts became available. This enabled the commencement of conversion of the western portion of the municipality from 6,600 volts to 11,000 volts. Work programs were also being carried out for the installation of a second feeder from the bulk supply substation DC to provide an alternative 22,000 volt supply.
Both of these work programs entailed the disconnection of supply to consumers on several occasions. Notification of these interruptions were given by hand delivered notices and advertisements in the local newspaper. Unfortunately, during the early months of 1968, further interruptions occurred as a result of storm damage as well as electricity restrictions brought about by a strike of SECV employees. These combined events gave those residents, who believed the Council should sell the Electricity Undertaking, the opportunity of discrediting the performance of the Electricity Department. The Council, however, was giving its full support to the Department despite the criticism, and in an attempt to defend the service of the Department, an explanation of the interruptions was publicised in the local newspapers.
By winter 1968, most of the augmentation works had been completed and there were now 2 - 22,000
kV bulk supply feeders from substation DC, and 4 - 6,600 volt feeders and 2 - 11,000 volt feeders from substation WD.
At this time the management of Westfield Ltd advised the Council of the proposed development of a shopping complex at the comer of Doncaster and Williamsons Roads. In anticipation of further load growth from this proposal and additional residential development, steps were initiated for the establishment of an additional bulk supply substation. Following discussions with officers of the SECV, a site for the substation was chosen in Thompsons Road, at the comer of Waratah Drive, Templestowe. This was to become known as substation BU and was intended to relieve part of the loading from the bulk supply substation WD in Kingsnorth Street, West Doncaster so that additional capacity would be available for the Westfield Doncaster Shoppingtown complex.
Residential development was continuing at a rapid rate as orchards were being removed to enable land subdivisions. During 1968, approximately 1200 new premises were connected to supply and many allotments were reticulated in readiness for supplying additional homes with electricity. There were now 206 distribution substations and the total maximum demand had increased to 20,400 kilowatts.
Regular discussions were being held by officers of the Association of Municipal Electricity Authorities, representing the Council and the other ten municipal electricity undertakings, and the SECV relating to improved bulk supply tariffs and the threatened acquisitions of the undertakings. As at the beginning of 1969, little progress had been made on the bulk supply tariffs, however, it was becoming apparent that despite the Commission's intention, the State Government was not pursuing any action of acquisition of the undertakings. This was mainly due to the solidarity of Councils with the resultant political consequences, as well as the financial expenditure involved for any takeover of assets.
The City of Doncaster and Templestowe at this time, was changing rapidly. In addition to the
continued residential development, the construction of Doncaster Shoppingtown was underway, together with construction of Doncaster Road and Williamsons Road in preparation for the opening
of the shopping complex. Other developments were also taking place, including the Bulleen Village Shopping Centre, Bulleen Hotel/Motel and the Safeway Store at Macedon Square. All these projects required the installation of substations and cables for the provision of electricity supply which were added to the Electricity Department's already heavy work load for the residential growth.
The SECV had established Electricity Marketing and Sales Departments for the purpose of formulating merchandising policies, tariffs, market research and the sales of electricity. These departments were set up at a time of aggressive promotion of natural gas by the Gas and Fuel Corporation of Victoria. In the development of residential loading, the Commission was actively promoting electricity for cooking, hot water services and room heating which included offering subsidies towards the cost of installations.
However, mainly due to the previous lack of gas reticulation within the municipality, many premises were already installed with electric stoves and hot water services which resulted in the further connection of these appliances becoming uneconomical to the Council due to their effect on the systems maximum demand. The SECV had given some concessions in the bulk supply tariff to the Council but the proportion of these appliances connected by the Electricity Department was already much higher than the State average. The Council was therefore placed in a dilemma, for additional connections of these appliances would result in the loss of profit margin. Nevertheless, it was realised that the anticipated revenue from Doncaster Shoppingtown and the other commercial developments under construction would help to compensate for this loss of profit.
Consequently, after much thought, the Council agreed to support the Commission's marketing policies with the hope that further discussions would encourage the Commission to grant an improved bulk supply tariff. A Consumers' Engineer was appointed to give local support to the
marketing program. However, the Council also requested the Association of Municipal Electricity Authorities to continue its negotiations with the SECV to enable financial stability to the Council and a positive incentive for an increased sales activity.
The installation of high mast street lighting at the comer of Doncaster and Williamsons Roads and the associated mercury vapour lighting along these roads was completed prior to the opening of Doncaster Shoppingtown. On the 26th of August 1969, a Switching on” ceremony was held similar to that which had taken place at this location in 1916 when electricity supply was first connected to Doncaster.
The number of staff employed for administrative and technical duties was increasing to provide the necessary services for the growth of electricity consumers. The accommodation for these personnel within the Municipal Offices finally became inadequate, however, a house at 693 Doncaster Road, westwards of the Municipal Offices was now vacant. A temporary extension was added to the house and after some minor internal alterations, the Electricity Department was relocated from the Municipal Offices to this building during December 1969.
Negotiations between the Association of Municipal Electricity Authorities and the SECV continued and, in May 1970, the Council was informed that the bulk supply tariff would be reviewed, particularly those relating to "off peak” retail tariffs and the maximum demand charges for "off peak" loadings brought about by the connection of electric hot water services and heat banks for room heating. This concession was on the basis of the Council undertaking sales promotion activities in liaison with the SECV and the other member Councils of the Association. The bulk supply tariff was to be reviewed in two years' time and the Council's performance over this period would determine the Commission's attitude for any future negotiations.
This concession was to benefit the Council by at least $50,000 per annum so the Electricity Department pursued the sales promotion activities in the belief that, if the increased sales were detrimental to its financial operation, specific factors would be reviewed by the Commission. It was the commencement of promotional displays of electrical appliances at Doncaster Shoppingtown and Bulleen Village, the payment of wiring subsidies for the conversion of appliances from other fuels to electricity, meetings with Registered Electrical Contractors, liaison with builders of display homes and regular publicity in the local newspapers. The Council also became a member of the Electrical
HIGH MAST STREET LIGHTING -1969 Doncaster- Williamsons-Tram Roads
(1st installation of its type in Victoria)
Doncaster / Tempiestowe .Historical Society
Development Association of Victoria and later in the year, began the distribution of a quarterly newsletter "Electricity News” with consumers electricity accounts.
It was also a time when "electricity consumers" began to be referred to as "electricity customers" as the Department was becoming more market orientated.
There were now over 17,000 customers connected to the electricity system and the manual processes for electricity billing became inadequate. Alternative procedures were investigated, however, rather than purchase a computer, the Electricity Department decided to use the service bureau facilities of the Local Government Superannuation Board for this purpose. This service commenced early in 1971 but was initially confined to quarterly domestic and farming accounts. There were still a relatively few commercial and industrial customers and consequently the application of the computer for monthly billing could not be justified at this stage.
Underground Retjcidatjon
During discussions with developers of residential land subdivisions, the alternative of installing underground electrical systems was often raised. The City Electrical Engineer considered that underground reticulation systems should be encouraged as part of the residential development of the municipality. However, the additional cost was a deterrent.
The first installations of underground reticulation occurred in Rowallan Court, East Doncaster and Wembley Gardens, Donvale during 1969 and in a few other streets of land subdivisions in 1970 and early 1971. Following this limited experience, the Council, in May 1971 resolved that certain areas within the municipality were to have an underground electrical reticulation system, this being the
first time a Town Planning condition of this type was applied for residential land subdivisions in Victoria.
In order to encourage the land developers to accept this policy, it was necessary to install a system which was of least cost and would not cause any delays in the completion of the construction works for the land subdivision. This would require the development of a less costly reticulation system and
the implementation of flexible work programs to co-ordinate with the activities of the road construction and drainage contractors.
The Department did not have any employees who had skills in the installation of underground reticulation and consequently it was necessary to consider the retraining of the existing linesmen for this purpose. Paper insulated cables were available but were very costly and required special skills for their installation. Cross-linked polythene cables, which could be more easily installed, were not yet manufactured in Australia, although one manufacturer was in the process of importing the necessary equipment.
High voltage switchgear and the associated electrical equipment also added to the high cost of underground reticulation which had originally been designed for the three phase systems in the United Kingdom and Europe. Although expensive, these schemes had been economical in these countries where the customer density was say, 15 to 40 premises per hectare, whereas subdivisions in Doncaster and Templestowe ranged from 2 to 10 premises per hectare.
Being aware of less costly underground reticulation systems for residential subdivisions in the United
States of America, the City Electrical Engineer obtained permission from the Council to attend a conference held in Detroit during September 1971 and to visit supply authorities and learn about their practices. From the information gathered on this overseas tour, the City Electrical Engineer developed a three phase underground system suitable for the Australian electricity distribution
requirements, but incorporating electrical equipment and techniques adopted for the single phase systems of the U.S.A. This involved a hybrid system using the existing overhead high voltage supply along established roads to connect to either 22,000 volt or 11,000 volt underground cables installed in the new subdivisions. These cables were protected by fuses to limit the current flow in the event
of a fault in the system.
BMJERGBOBND ‘ WTICULATION
Street Tight Colunm
Street Light Column
(Lowered for house connection)
This concept enabled high voltage cables of smaller size to be installed and the use of cable terminations and plug-in cable connections which were available from the U.S.A. In addition, transformers with special bushings for the plug-in connections and internal switchgear had the potential to be developed for Australian manufacture at a cheaper cost than conventional equipment. The high voltage cables were initially imported from Sweden and New Zealand before Australian manufactured cables became available. With the co-operation of a local manufacturer, a special design of transformer incorporating the imported switchgear and bushings was soon manufactured. This was later to become a standard transformer for use by other Australian electricity authorities ais well.
Low voltage plastic insulated underground cables had already been installed by interstate electricity authorities. Some of these techniques were adopted although alternative means of connecting the house service cables to the underground low voltage cables were being attempted. After installing various types of connection pits and pillars, the Department finally developed a street light column mounted on a pillar which served the purpose for both street lighting and house service connections.
In order to further reduce the cost of underground reticulation, the Department encouraged the developers to excavate and backfill trenches and negotiated with the Postmaster Generals Department (now Telecom) to provide telephone conduits for installation by the Electricity Department at the time of laying the electrical cables.
The additional costs of installing underground reticulation were now being accepted by the land developers, particularly as they realised that the market prices for land sales had been increased as a result of the absence of poles and overhead wires in the streets.
The City of Doncaster and Templestowe had become a leader in the development of underground reticulation and following a conference of the Electricity Supply Association of Australia, several engineers from interstate Electricity Authorities attended a display of equipment and installation practices of the Electricity Department. In 1979 the City Electrical Engineer was appointed to a national committee for the standardisation of underground residential distribution practices.
The Polities of Power
The early 1970s were exciting times as the growth of electricity consumption continued at more than 10 percent per annum and the average annual sales of electricity to consumers in the City of
Doncaster and Templestowe was 5,850 kWh compared with the State average of 3,850 kWh. This additional consumption was mainly due to the high proportion of "off peak” electric hot water services and room heating installed in homes.
At that time, the SECV was promoting the application of "off peak” water and room heating to improve the utilisation of the Commission's generating plant in the La Trobe Valley. However, the Council's "off peak" loading had increased to such an extent that any additional "off peak" appliances resulted in the bulk purchase costs becoming in excess of the additional revenue from electricity sales.
As the Commission's marketing programs were detrimental to the Electricity Department's financial viability, the Council, through the Association of Municipal Electricity Authorities representing eleven Councils with electricity undertakings, again requested the Commission and the State Government for a fairer basis for the purchase of bulk electricity.
Following continued discussions between the officers of the Association and the Commission, it was mutually agreed that no Council should be forced into a situation of having cumulative operating losses. Preliminary investigations were carried out to establish a basis for future bulk supply tariffs, but these were complicated because of existing policies of the State Uniform Tariffs and the crosssubsidisation that existed between tariff classes.
These discussions resulted in the Commission agreeing to replace the existing bulk supply tariffs and
its associated equalisation adjustments with a cost-plus formula. This formula was to be determined in two parts: operating costs and profit allocation.
The operating costs were to be based on the actual costs incurred by the Electricity Department during the 1970/71 financial year and indexed in line with the average cost increases of the electricity supply industry, but to allow for any unforeseen variation in distribution costs that could be justified. The profit allocation was to be determined on the Department's equity, efficiency and load growth, together with a provision for loan redemption and sinking fund commitments. The proposal was to commence on the 1 October 1972 for a two year trial on the understanding that the Council would continue to support the Commission's sales promotion activities. However, it was to be another 12 months of negotiation before an agreement, known as the Trial Financial Scheme, was finally reached.
The rapid growth of electricity load resulted in the need to rebuild the electricity lines and install additional substations. These works entailed the disconnection of supply to many areas, which, in conjunction with a number of other unplanned interruptions, caused the public to become very critical of the performance of the Electricity Department. Over a period of 18 months, 35 unplanned major feeder interruptions and several other minor substation interruptions had occurred. Collectively the public had every reason to be dissatisfied with the service provided by the Electricity Department and the City Electrical Engineer was asked to report on causes of the interruptions to the Council.
An analysis of the interruptions had revealed that of the 35 major occurrences, 14 were caused by motor vehicles' hitting poles, 11 by falling tree branches, 5 by lightning strikes, 3 by equipment failure and 2 by birds. The equipment failure and several of the minor interruptions had been caused by rifle fire when a number of transformers, insulators and street lights were damaged in acts of vandalism. Of these interruptions, only those caused by tree branches were within the control of the Electricity Department, so an extensive program of clearing trees from power lines was initiated. However, advertisements were also placed in the local newspapers offering a reward for any reports which would lead to a successful prosecution of persons causing the vandalism.
Fortunately, the interruptions lessened and the reliability of the electricity supply began to improve. Nevertheless, it was some time before the public accepted that so many supply interruptions were unavoidable, but the series of events encouraged further pressure on the Council by those who wanted Council to sell the Undertaking.
The Council had very limited powers in the clearing of trees from electricity supply lines, particularly
those trees which were located on private property. In September 1973, the Council requested the SECV to grant a supplementary Order-in-Council to give authority to lop and cut any trees and hedges which were likely to interfere with the construction, maintenance or operation of its
electricity supply lines. An Order-in-Council No. 354 was issued to the Council in July 1974.
The Trial Financial Scheme for the bulk purchase of electricity from the S.E.C.V. had completed its term of two years, but no equitable settlement had resulted. The Council consequently agreed to a
continuation of the scheme for another 12 months to the 30th September 1976, provided that the period be used to establish a long term agreement with principles embodied in the Trial Financial Scheme and respecting the statutory rights of both parties.
The Association of Municipal Electricity Authorities representing all the eleven municipal electricity undertakings, engaged firms of solicitors and accountants to assist in providing legal and financial
information to support its negotiations with the Commission for a financial arrangement to commence on the 1st October 1976. Little progress was achieved during the 12 months and as no agreement had been reached, the Commission offered to extend the scheme for a further 12 months
or alternatively, transfer to an equalisation rate scheme operating with one of the municipal, electricity undertakings.
Neither arrangement would allow the long term viability of the Electricity Department or any of the municipal electricity undertakings, so the Association informed the Minister of Fuel mid Power of its
total dissatisfaction with the negotiations and requested the Minister to undertake an immediate and completely independent review of the actions of the Commission in relation to its negotiations with the Councils.
No satisfactory financial arrangement had been achieved after several months of negotiation, so the Association requested the Premier, the Hon. R J Hamer to receive a deputation to discuss the issues. This meeting took place on the 3rd February 1977 when the Association expressed its view that the Councils were appalled at the way in which the SECV had been behaving during the conduct of the financial negotiations and had no alternative but to seek the Premier's aid to reach a solution.
One of the main difficulties in the negotiation was that the Commission would only agree to a fixed
profit margin for each year's operation based on the surplus for the 1970/71 financial year whereas the member Councils of the Association believed that parity with the Consumer Price Index should be maintained so that the surplus could be adjusted relative to inflation.
The Premier, in April 1977, recommended a compromise by agreeing to a surplus escalated annually for the current and future years at 50% of the Consumer Price Index.
The City of Doncaster and Templestowe and nine of the other ten Councils finally agreed to compromise, subject to further discussions on unresolved issues. These discussions were to ensure that the Commission could not abrogate Council benefits by making arbitrary adjustments of any income or cost factors and that the spirit of the original Trial Financial Scheme be applied in future years.
Subsequent discussions with officers of the Commission did not resolve a number of the issues and although directed by the Minister to finalise an Agreement, the Commission was hesitant to compromise. The Association again referred the issue to the Premier for arbitration. In May 1979, the Premier determined principles for an Agreement to cover a 7 year period commencing on the 1st October 1976 with subsequent reviews at 5 year intervals.
Further negotiations continued, mainly on issues affecting the statutory rights of the Councils. It was not until the 17th Februaiy 1981, that the Agreement between the City of Doncaster and Templestowe and the State Electricity Commission of Victoria was signed, some 4-1/2 years after the date on which the Agreement was to commence and 10 years from the time when the issues were first negotiated. Although some of the Councils' concerns were still not resolved, nine of the other ten Councils with Electricity Undertakings also signed similar Agreements, while the remaining Council, the City of Melbourne, continued negotiations on special issues confined to its Undertaking.
Unfortunately, these prolonged negotiations also restricted the official communication between
officers of the Councils and the Commission. As an example, the eleven Councils were not able to participate in the development of electricity marketing strategies for the State, even though they were part of the Electricity Supply Industry, serving nearly 20% of the customers.
Planning for the Future
At the end of 1980, there were 25,256 customers. Unlike 10 years earlier when approximately 1,600 new homes were connected each year, the annual total was now only 600. The capital works program was expected to reduce as the municipality reached a stage of full development later in the decade. Nevertheless, works programs were to be oriented towards the maintenance of existing distribution assets.
The Electricity Department vacated the temporary offices at 693 Doncaster Road and after 10 years, returned to the municipal offices following the completion of extensions to the building.
During the next two years, the management structure of all Departments of the Council was being
reviewed. The Electricity Department took the opportunity to look at its functions and to set
objectives so that future programs could be related to the objectives of the Department. Consequently, as from 1982, the Electricity Department operated with the following Objectives:
(a) carrying out construction, operation and maintenance works with the utmost efficiency.
(b) adequately planning for the future requirements of electricity;
(c) promoting safety and the effective utilisation of energy;
(d) providing administrative services in a competent manner;
(e) observing the requirements of the Electric Light and Power Act or any regulation or by-laws gazetted under this Act and the Orders-in-Council.
These objectives took into account sound economic management mid the safe and high quality supply and service to electricity customers. They became the basis for developing each year's Operating Plan, and were subsequently reviewed as necessary.
Discussions had taken place between officers of the Electricity Department and the SECV for the installation of an additional 22,000 volt bulk supply substation in Doncaster East to provide an
alternative source of supply to that from Substation DC located within the City of Box HIE southwards of Church Road. This alternative substation which was to be located in Blackburn Road northwards of Reynolds Road, was originaHy planned for taking supply in 1981, but due to lack of capital funding, the SECV had to defer this project.
Although more capacity was available from substation DC, the Electricity Department was very reluctant to instaH extra feeders, as they would have had to pass through common easements across
Koonung Creek from Box HiE and be placed on poles in the existing high voltage overhead system. This supply arrangement would have reduced the reliabihty of supply if any faflure occurred.
In view of the expected delay in the installation of the Doncaster East substation, an alternative source of supply was provided at another SECV bulk supply substation NW located in Springvale
Road, Nunawading. An Order-in-CouncE was obtained for access through the City of Nunawading and the 22,000 volt system was connected to this substation during 1983.
It was about this time that the Minister for Minerals and Energy released a paper "The Electricity
Supply Industry - Options for the Future”. This paper presented eight options for the future of the Electricity Supply Industry in Victoria.
These options were:
Continuation of the present arrangements.
Establishment of Regional Consultative Boards in the SECV areas of supply;
S.E.C.V. acquisition of the Municipal Electricity Undertakings (MEUs);
Merger of the MEUs into one or more larger organisations to be managed by one or more Boards;
Regional organisation of MEUs in which the SECV would provide bulk electricity to the Association of Municipal Electricity Authorities which would coordinate the MEUs;
Transfer of the SECV supply system to municipalities throughout Victoria;
• Transfer of S.E.C.V. supply system to Statutory Regional Boards similar to that in New South Wales;
The Minister, in releasing the paper for public comment, stated that the industry had not been subject to an overall review for more than 30 years and he wanted the industry to operate as efficiently as possible. A Task Force was appointed for this purpose.
The City of Doncaster and Templestowe and the Association of Municipal Electricity Authorities welcomed the proposed review as it provided the opportunity to raise issues which had not been resolved during the negotiations for the Financial Agreement for the bulk supply of electricity from
the SECV.
The Council and the Association submitted replies to the Task Force which raised: the difficulties with the Financial Agreement, an interpretation of equity, a recommendation for uniform accounting procedures for the electricity supply industry and a request for a return on equity to the Councils at least equal to that received by the Victorian Government from the SECV.
A number of other submissions were received by the Task Force, and the final report was presented
to the Minister later in the year. The report concluded that the Electricity Supply Industry in Victoria was grossly deficient when assessed in terms of accountability and equity and that the Task Force was unable to recommend any changes in the structure of the industry before the accountability situation, particularly the Local Government component was resolved. The report also included recommendations on accountability, equity and improvement in relationships between the Municipal Electricity Undertakings and the SECV, all of which supported the Councils1 submission. However, the report included recommendations which conflicted with the policies of the Department of Local Government, particularly those relating to consultation with Councils and Councils1 powers under the Local Government Act.
Although these differences between the Government Departments were to be further resolved,
officers of the Council members of the Association of Municipal Electricity Authorities and the SECV were appointed to Working Groups for the purpose of developing uniform accounting practices and performance indicators.
In June 1986, the Council received a Draft Heads of Agreement prepared by the Commission, including matters of uniformity and accountability recommended by the Task Force, as a basis for the future supply of bulk electricity following the termination of the Financial Agreement. However, the draft included conditions which would interfere with the autonomy of Local Government and present an undesirable precedent of State Government interference in the operation of entrepreneurial activities of Councils.
The Association of Municipal Electricity Authorities, represented the Council during a series of
discussions and, as the Draft Agreement was unacceptable, negotiations continued during 1987. In these discussions, representatives of the Department of Industry, Technology and Resources also participated for they wanted to encourage a businesslike arrangement with an incentive for efficiency. The Association also preferred a businesslike arrangement and particularly a tariff for bulk electricity based on the true cost of supply and, consequently, supported the involvement of this government department in the discussions.
The role of the Association was extending and there was a need to encourage the Government to relate the Association as a member of the electricity supply industry rather than being only a
defence organisation for the Councils. The Association was incorporated to become a legal entity and changed its name to the Local Government Electricity Association (Victoria) Inc. The City Electrical Engineer decided to retire from the Council and accept an appointment as Executive Officer of the newly formed Association on a part-time basis.
Before terminating his services, he reported to the Council on the need to relocate the offices of the
Electricity Department as the expanded role of the Council in its normal Local Government activities resulted in the need for additional accommodation in the Municipal Offices. As a result, the Council gave approval for the relocation of the Electricity Department to 666 Doncaster Road.
RATIONALISATION
Mr Kevin Elder was appointed to the position of City Electrical Engineer following the retirement of Mr Andersen*
There were now 80,800 customers and the municipality was reaching a stage when little land was available for residential development. Although the number of land subdivisions had reduced, several homes generally built before 1960 were now being demolished to enable the construction of multi-unit dwellings, hi addition, several office blocks had been erected, so the works programs of the Electricity Department were being directed towards the augmentation of the distribution system to provide capacity for the increased demand of electricity.
The Financial Agreement with the SECY for the bulk supply of electricity terminated on the 30th June 1988 and an interim financial arrangement, for the 12 months to 30th June 1989, was put in
place pending an Inquiry into the Local Government Electricity Industry by the Victoria Grants Commission.
This Inquiry was initiated conjointly by the Minister for Industry, Technology and Itesources and the Minister for Local Government with the following terms of reference:
"To enquire into the Local Government electricity industry in Victoria and to analyse and report on both the financial arrangements between the Municipal Electricity Undertakings and the State Electricity Commission of Victoria, and any changes deemed necessary or appropriate to improve the arrangement for supply of electricity and associated service to the Victorian community.*
This Inquiry required a considerable effort from the staff of the Electricity Department in providing financial and technical information to assist the Victoria Grants Commission. A major part of the
additional workload was the need to produce a current cost valuation of the assets of the Department.
After hearing submissions, the Victoria Grants Commission recommende4 that a more businesslike financial arrangement should exist between the SECV and all of the Municipal Electricity Undertakings. The new arrangement was to be in the form of a Retail margin approach rather than
a rationally constructed Bulk Supply Tariff proposed by the Local Government Electricity Supply Association on behalf of the Municipal Electricity Undertakings. This new approach required the establishment of a set of Retail Margins to cover the costs of the distribution of electricity to each
customer class, based on standard costs in the metropolitan area.
In making this recommendation, the Victorian Grants Commission believed that with the State
Governments Uniform Tariff Policy, the Retail Margin approach was the only available businesslike arrangement, as it allowed as much autonomy to the Councils as possible. It also provided an incentive for the Councils to reduce the operating costs of their Electricity Departments.
This Inquiry, unfortunately, had an unsettling effect on the staff of the Councils Electricity Department, for morale had been affected by the uncertainties of the future. However, the new arrangement commenced on 1 July 1989 and provided the staff with new challenges.
In October 1989, the Council established a Board of Management for the Department which, as a result of a change of corporate structure, was renamed the Electricity Services Group. The Board, among its other roles, had the principal functions of acting as a liaison body between the Council and
the Electricity Services Group mid to ensure that the Group provided the highest standards of service within the constraints imposed by the relevant Acts, Rules and Regulations and current
financial mid supply arrangements.
A great deal of emphasis has since been placed on rationalising the activities of the Electricity Services Group to achieve reduced operating costs, but maintaining a high standard of service to electricity customers.
These activities included:
The installation of a new computer for electricity billing, customer information and technical data;
Converting a software package for the financial systems;
Reducing staff numbers to reflect the downturn in development works and the improvement in productivity measures;
Restructure of the Group's organisation in preparation for the future.
During 1990, the Federal Treasurer directed the Industry Commission to report on the scope for improving the efficiency of energy generation and distribution in Australia. After hearing submissions, the Commission, in 1991, recommended that to improve efficiency there was a need to improve the structure of both the electricity and gas industries. For the electricity industry, there should be a change in the way the industry was structured and the manner in which electricity was priced. The Industry Commission concluded that in order to rectify serious impediments to efficient resource use in the electricity industry, the following actions were necessary:
Separate the ownership of generation, transmission and distribution functions;
Break up the existing publicly owned generating capacity to form a number of independent generating bodies;
Form a public body to acquire and operate all transmission assets in New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, South Australia and Tasmania;
Create multiple distribution franchises in States where they don't exist;
. Require all transmission and distribution bodies to provide open access;
Corporatise all public bodies to place them on a commercial basis;
Enable private enterprise to purchase generation and distribution assets;
Eliminate cross-subsidies between customer classes and restructure tariffs so that the revenue is sufficient to recover the economic costs of supply.
The Industry Commission, in making these principal recommendations, set a challenge to the Electricity Authorities to be more competitive so that the cost of electricity could be reduced.
The State Electricity Commission of Victoria has since been subject to an Inquiry by the Victorian Public Bodies Review Committee on its future corporatisation. As at the present time, the report of the Committee has not been released. In the meantime, the SECV has initiated the establishment of 18 Customer Service Centres to carry out the distribution functions from regional offices throughout the State.
The restructure of the Electricity Supply Industry will, in some way, influence the manner in which Local Government participates in electricity distribution. Whatever takes place, the Electricity Services Group of the City of Doncaster and Templestowe is well equipped to adjust to any changes
that may occur.
SHTRE BT iTCCTRICIANS/EILECTRICAL ENGINEERS
AND CITY ELECTRICAL ENGINEERS
John Vergers 1916-1918
Frank W Wright 1918-1921
W Hummerston 1921-1922
N J Day 1922-1923
W F Keedle 1923-1925
James Shorthouse 1925-1930
Archibald J F Elliot 1930-1943
Raymond A J Elliot 1943-1963
Basil S Bird 1963-1967
Graeme F Andersen 1967-1987
Kevin W Elder 1987-
Graeme F Andersen 1967-1987
Basil S Bird 1963-1967
Kevin W Elder 1987-
CITY OF
DONCASTER
AN0 SH/RE OF ELTHAM
TEMPLESTOWE
Doncaster / Tempiestowa
: Historical Society
CITY OF DONCASTER AND TEMPLESTOWE
ELECTRICITY DEPARTMENT ANNUAL STATISTICS
YEAR NO. OF CUSTOMERS ANNUAL REVENUE $ ELECTRICITY SALES KWH MAXIMUM DEMAND KW NO. OF SUBSTATIONS NO. OF STREET LIGHTS
1920 120 1,247 N/A N/A N/A 25
1930 N/A 7,270 N/A N/A N/A N/A
1940 557 11,480 419,650 165 17 104
1950 981 34,636 1,906,697 900 28 145
1960 4,169 408,616 17,990,853 5,424 82 372
1970 15,923 2,308,196 102,675,000 25,060 257 4,017
1980 25,256 11,319,967 219,952,996 53,770 532 | 6,938
1990 32,222 29,958,987 288,621,000 65,120 634 9,325
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