HYDRO-ELECTRIC POWER

Dominion, Volume 11, Issue 224, 10 June 1918, Page 6

HYDRO-ELECTRIC POWER

SCHEME FOR UTILISATION

DISTRICT BOARDS SUGGESTED

In urging tho utilisation of tlio hydroelectric resources of tho Dominion in tho interests of the industrial development of the country, in an address -under the auspices of the Auckland Industrial Association, tho Hon. G. W. Russell propounded a scheme by which the expenditure involved in the harnessing of our water-power could bo met. "It is possible," said the Minister, "that on necount of the heavy war commitments the National Government may liesitnto to proceed with tho development work owing to the largo expenditure involved. Under the Local Railways Act power is given to any district to make its own railways, subject to a number of conditions, "three of which are: (1) That the lands affected are tho security for the money borrowed for the purpose; (2) that tho Government has power all any time to take over the line; (3) that in the event of its doing so no goodwill shall be paid. I 6eo no reason why these principles should not be applied to hydro-electric power. If this were done, and tho Auckland hospital district taken as one unit—including the city and surrounding districts—there would be ,£U,500,000 worth of property placeablo as security for tho establishment of a scheme for Auckland city and district. A board would be established, which could undertake the work without waiting even for tho conclusion of the war. If legislation were passed next session the necessary surveys, etc., could be undertaken without waiting for the starting of tho Waikaremoana scheme, which is the next to be undertaken on tho Government schedule. As the national undertakings are extended and completed the local schemes could be within touch of them, and years of valuable time would be saved in harnessing the power in the interest of industry, commerce, and home life." ■.