In 2008, Umngazi spent R400 000.00 with Eskom. This year we're budgeting for a cost of 1 million Rand, with no increase in electricity units consumed. It baffles us as to how they can pass on such an enormous increase in a matter of 3 1/2 years?!! If we did not address the matter urgently, this would have serious tariff implications for our valued guests.
After an intensive investigation, it appears that the most sensible "quick win" was "heat pumps" in conjunction with our water geysers. This has reduced our electricity charge by about 30%. That is not enough and so we are engaged in further investigations on the feasibility of erecting a solar panel farm at the top of our hill as well as finding suitable wind chargers to work in tandem with the panels. The problem is, Eskom for the time being, will not allow us to generate power directly into the grid. Were it not for this problem, this programme would already be underway... but we not giving up!
Many of you will already know that all our waste is processed through a high-tech purification works, which produces water of sufficient quality to be recycled into the gardens in due course. Furthermore, just like many of you, Umngazi separates various categories of other disposable waste but unfortunately, The Municipality of Port St Johns, does not have the facilities at the moment, to deal with separated waste. It's a great shame because the little village would love to be regarded as a desirable tourist destination and yet they are not dealing with important matters like this at the present time. Nevertheless, we shall continue to move the bureaucrats in the right direction until a proper outcome is finally achieved.
We are delighted to announce that R25'000 was raised which enabled us to provide over 1000 packs in our Stationary Drive and nurture this important need for the children in the Umngazi Valley. Thank you to all the wonderful families, individuals and companies that contributed to this wonderful project.
For 2012 we have seen a great need for building projects - from store rooms to kitchens, from Grade R class rooms to basic admin / storage rooms and toilets. There is also a great need for sports equipment - soccer and netball equipment and kit! Should anyone want to contribute to the 4 local Umngazi schools in any way - please contact Michele on michele@umngazi.co.za
We thank guests who have got involved in the My School Programme and linked their Woolworths cards to our Umngazi Valley Schools, namely:
- Vukandlule Junior Secondary School
- Cwebeni Junior Secondary School
- Sicambeni Junior Secondary School
Please call Michele Walker at Umngazi should you have any further queries. Note that you can support the schools by linking your Woolworths card to MySchool and every time you swipe your card; 1% of your purchase will go to your nominated school. You can nominate up to three schools.
Go onto www.myschool.co.za to register. And click on one or more of our schools as above.
Your on-going support and love of our special valley is so appreciated.
We thank you in advance for your generosity and spirit! |
