The onset of cold weather has meant Canberra’s gas reserves have gotten very low, says ActewAGL chief executive John Mackay.
He told the ABC we all need to restrict our gas use over the next 24 hours (presumably until they get more in).
“All of the houses and businesses in Canberra and Queanbeyan are potentially affected, but I would stress there is no reason to believe they will all lose gas,” he said.
“In fact we’re hoping that the restrictions we are asking people to follow on a voluntary basis will get us through this period of shortage.”
He said there is little chance the gas supply will have to be shut off completely, but that it is better to be cautious. “We may be forced to go to involuntary restrictions if the situation isn’t remedied,” he said.
UPDATE The Canberra Times now has a story up about this, with more detail. Measures you should take to conserve gas include switching off all unnecessary gas space heating, pool and spa heating, and gas water heating units. Big clubs have been asked to turn down their heating systems by a few degrees (but not completely off, as I hear happened to Belconnen Mall yesterday).
For more information on the gas restrictions and exemptions call ActewAGL on 131 886, or visit their website.