More Power for Apia
p. 23 · Read in the full issue
Western Samoa’s new hydro-electric nation which will generate 1,000 kilowatts [?] meet Apia’s increasing requirements, is [?]earing completion and should be in full peration by the end of this year.
Two dams which will harness the main and western branches of the upper [?]aisigano River are nearly completed, [?]nd the pipeline to the powerhouse at [?]laoa has already been laid. Anchored [?] the cliff-face by huge concrete blocks, [?]is pipeline will plunge water 280 feet [?] the powerhouse, gathering sufficient [?]omentum to spin the turbines. Water will [?]e stored in ponds 465 feet above the
powerhouse, giving the water added momentum.
The project is in the hands of the Public Works Department and the complete hydro-electric station will cost approximately £NZ250,000.
Photos show, top: The powerhouse (left) and staff accommodation at Alaoa, with the pipeline anchored to the cliff face rising sheer behind the building.
Lower, the auxiliary dam which will harness the western branch of the Vaisigano River at Avele, photographed when nearing completion in July. —Photos by Jack Thornton.