PLACING power lines from the CUC power plant underground to CHCC appears to be justified based on what happened during the recent super typhoons. All of us recall that the overhead power lines, essentially all along Pale Arnold Road, were damaged and thus no power to CHCC could be delivered.
Is placing the power lines underground to CHCC the best solution? It will not prevent power outages as CHCC will still be dependent on CUC’s power plant for its power.
A few thoughts:
1) The cause of the power poles being knocked down was in large part due to flying debris, specifically corrugated tin. Tin roofing flew off poorly constructed homes and/or abandoned buildings which got tangled with the power lines. When this happens, the tangled debris on the power lines behaves like a sail on a sail boat adding tremendous additional force to the already strong winds.
Require that homes be designed and constructed to withstand typhoon conditions. We need to insist that all structures be built to resist typhoon conditions. We know that we will be hit by another super typhoon. Enforce the building codes. It is a lot more cost effective than to put power lines under ground.
2) Upgrade the generator(s) at CHCC so that CHCC will be capable of generating 100% of its power needs. Put in additional generators to ensure that power will always be available.
Placing power underground is very expensive, both during construction and afterwards as heavy maintenance will be required.
EFRAIN CAMACHO
Saipan, CNMI
