[HPFGU-OTChatter] Re: Electricity

[Neil Ward]

Heather said:

<<Second, this electricity key thing is both really odd and a really good
idea which keeps the usage in line. If you had to pay as you went, I think
we'd use less. ... Does anyone else have this or is this uniquely a British
Univerisy
town oddity?>>

It's quite common here, particularly for people on a limited budget (not
just students).

In the olden days, there were electricity meters that took coins; the idea
was the same, but it required a bit more elbow grease to keep things
running.  When I first moved into my flat, 16 years ago, there was still a
coin meter connected to the supply.  This meant that, although I was billed
for my power, I had to con this 1950s meter into thinking it was still
running, by feeding a shilling (5p coin) through it - i.e., putting the coin
in a slot, cranking the handle, catching the coin as it fell out of the
machine, and repeating about 100 times.  At first, I would stand there,
giggling, while I did this, but after a few months, it got annoying and I
got someone to remove the meter.

As to the general question about eckeltricity, I'm terrible for leaving
things running.  I turn on my computer and the TV as soon as I get in the
door.  I like to keep a couple of lights on, to give the impression that I'm
here when I'm not.  I have been known to have several appliances running at
the same time, vying for my attention.  It's something to do with living
alone, I think, but I know it's not very energy-conscious.

Somewhere, on a rubbish tip, my old electricity meter lies, turning in its
grave.

Neil

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Flying Ford Anglia