HYDRO-ELECTRIC SCHEME.

Otaki Mail, 5 March 1919, Page 3

HYDRO-ELECTRIC SCHEME.

* OTAKI’S EXAMPLE QUOTED. The ‘‘Evening Post,” writing on tho hydro-electric scheme in last night’s issue, says: — ' ‘‘.There is no need to describe further the important system of dams and tunnelling which will enable the full utilisation of what appears to be a limited supply of water. It is a most interesting engineering undertaking, and one of cotisidorable magnitude. If it is accomplished within four years, as seems possible with ordinary good fortune, satisfaction should be'general throughout the province, for file power will be at once available. The actual wiling of the province, the erection of the big transmission lines, the smaller distribution lines, and the transforming sub-stations will not be delayed until the actual power is being generated, but will be proceeded with simultaneously with the parent scheme as soon as the material is available at a reasonable rate. With the erection of distribution lines, which will radiate from the transformers, the functions of the State end. The various local authorities must attend to the reticulation of their own particular areas, and they cannot realise that fact too soon. Air Parry would like to see every local authority—city, borough, road board or county council —get to work as carl}- ns possible. Of course, he does not advise them to rush in now while prices for electrical equipment arc abnormal, but it is not too early tor them to prepare their plans. The local authorities must become the retailers of the power. They must sec that sooner or later there will be a tremendous demand for every class of electrical material, and it is the authority which gets in early that will henofit. Otaki-s example may be quoted. The Otaki people, like many others, did not anticipate an early commencement with the Mangaliao scheme, and decided to instal a steam electric plant at. a co.-t of £7OOO. Authority to raise a loan has been granted, and there is no intention to drop the plan now that Manguhao is within sight. AYliy ? Because of the £7OOO only £IOOO is required for the engine, and £6OOO for reticulation and wiring. So when the Mangaliao power comes along Otaki will be ready for it. Foresight on the part of many other local bodies is looked for. and it is in this direction that the Hydro-Electric League can continue its good work. Local authorities must be told where their duty lies. It is hoped they will be as keen in doing their own part as they were in urging the Government to do its part.