HYDRO-ELECTRIC POWER.

Taranaki Daily News, 10 August 1920, Page 5

HYDRO-ELECTRIC POWER.

THE NEW'PLYMOUTH SCHEME. THE TRANSMISSION LINES. In his monthly report the borough manager, New Plymouth, remarks that the license from the Government authorising the Council to take the necessary water from the Waiwakaiho river at thi new intake and granting an exteilded area of supply has been gazetted. He continues: "The Council is now in a position to take up the question of urg■ing the Government, as part of their targe, scheme, to erect transmission lines from Inglewood to Eltham. This matter was mentioned to the government's chief electrical engineer by the Council's deputation which was in Wellington last month. The suggestion was very favorably received by him and he promised to pay an early visit to the district. Arrangements should' be made with the other local bodies interested for a combined deputation to wait upon him andto place before him the great advantages which-would accrue to the district by the erection of the lines referred to. The erection of tttae lines by the Government woulji not only be an advantage to the district, but would be of advantage to the Government, Inasmuch as it would form part of the State's great electrical development scheme. It would, at no loss to the Government, develop the electrical business in.this part of Taranaki to such an extent that the Government lines, when they reached Taranaki, would be able to immediately link up with profitable business, instead of having t<J develop the business after the lines' had been erected. "Anxious inquiries are continually being made as to when the first portion of the Council's scheme will be completed and the power be available. Unfortunately no definite replies can be given. The answer depends entirely upon the time which will be taken to drive the second tunnel. The poles for the transmission line to Inglewood are coming to band, and are being laid along the roadside preparatory to erection. Contracts have been let this month for the ( electrical plant required, and delivery is expected within eight months. Tenders are out for pipe-line contract, and close <fa the 28th inst."