There must be alternative to GPL shutting down entire communities for hours

Dear Editor,

Around the world, restrictions are imposed on water usage during periods of drought. For example, in Austin, Texas, the use of home sprinklers is limited to two times per week while other simple rules like restaurants not serving water unless requested by customer are in effect – see http://www.austintexas.gov/wateringrestrictions.

In the current shortfall of electricity supply, GPL has opted to shut entire communities down for several hours a day including the evening hours when our students have to study for examinations. Today I will have blackout at work during working hours and blackout at home during evening hours. Very inconvenient for me and I’m sure for a lot of other people.

Can we not come up with an alternative such as shutting down all street lighting, air conditioners, non-essential perimeter lights, electrical welding plants, etc.? Significant fines would have to be imposed on those breaching the rules. We can save a lot of electricity in this way and redistribute so persons could have basic facilities such as lights and water.

Yours faithfully,

(Name and address provided))