I just responded to one of Kim Smith's messages, and something struck me as I was writing the response.

Many of us stateside folks get caught in a rut when we're talking about Y2k issues. This is certainly true of the electric utility industry, as well.

While I've dealt with international electric companies (primarily Canadian, Irish, and England), I too, get spun into the U.S. centric web occasionally.

What makes us think that we're the only country in the world in this boat? I'd be willing to bet, that outside of Westernized countries such as Austrailia, NZ, Canada, Great Britian, France, U.S., et.al., the electric providers are in potentially worse shape from a Y2k standpoint.

Anyone having the ability to drag some of their international contacts into this discussion group would be doing all of us a favor!

-- Anonymous, February 22, 1998

Answers

According to an article by Ross Stewart, Director, year2000 Ltd, (www.year2000.co.nz/2kprs19.htm), There has been a total power failure in the Central Business District (CBD) of Auckland, New Zealand's largest city (1 million). As of March 6, the city has been without power for 2 weeks, with no end in sight! They don't say what caused the failure, but attempts to correct the problem failed under test.

-- Anonymous, March 08, 1998

http://headlines.yahoo.com/Full_Coverage/AUNZ/Auckland_Power_Crisis/

If you are interested in following the Auckland, NZ Power crisis this is a real good place to start. The problem is not Y2K specific but triggered by natural conditions. If you want some insight to the effects of being without power it is a good place to look.

Dave H.

-- Anonymous, March 12, 1998