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Loto Samasoni Hydro Plant
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Industrial site
The Loto Samasoni hydropower plant on the Vaisigano River is an integral part of Samoa's renewable energy strategy. Originally built in the 1980s, the plant uses the river's natural flow to generate electricity for the greater Apia area. In 2012, the facility was severely damaged by Cyclone Evan, leading to a comprehensive reconstruction project with international support. Since being recommissioned in 2017, the plant has featured more modern turbines and improved resilience to extreme weather events. Loto Samasoni helps reduce the use of expensive diesel generators and thus lower the country's CO2 emissions. It is an example of Samoa's transition to a more sustainable and independent energy supply, managed by the Electric Power Corporation.
- Location: Samoa
- Top sights: Leufisa Church of Jesus Christ and the Latter Day Saints · Western Samoa Retired Nurses Association · Lalovaea Sisifos Nature Reserve
- Nearby: Vaiusu Tai (4 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 28 |
| Rain mm | 258 | 241 | 165 | 169 | 128 | 91 | 75 | 56 | 92 | 141 | 213 | 229 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The Loto Samasoni hydro plant uses the Vaisigano River's water to generate electricity, being one of Samoa's oldest and most reliable hydropower stations. It provides clean energy for Upolu's grid and showcases renewable energy in the region.
Visiting
The hydro plant is a fenced industrial area not open to the public. However, from the bridge over the Vaisigano River, the water intake and inlet structure are visible.
Where to view it
The best viewpoint is the small road bridge upstream of the plant. From there, you have a direct view of the water supply and the power station building.
Local products
In the Vaisigano valley area, tropical fruits like bananas and pineapples are grown and sold at local markets. Travellers can also buy fresh coconuts from roadside vendors.
Active season
The plant operates year-round, but the highest water flow and thus maximum power output is reached in the rainy season from November to April. In dry months, output is reduced.
Nearby
Combine the visit with a hike along the Vaisigano River to natural waterfalls and pools. Nearby villages offer traditional crafts and cooking classes.
Geography
Facts
- Uses the water of the Vaisigano River
- Has a nominal capacity of approximately 1.1 MW
- Reconstructed with help from the Asian Development Bank (ADB)
- Reduces dependence on imported fossil fuels
- Part of a cascade system of hydropower plants
- Important for peak load coverage in Apia
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
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Sights in the town Loto Samasoni Hydro Plant (10)
Tanugamanono Congregational Christian Church
Congregational Christian church in Tanugamanono, Samoa.
Tanugamanono Congregational Church of Jesus in Samoa
Congregational church in Tanugamanono, Samoa.
All Saints Multi-Purpose Hall⛪ church
Multi-purpose hall of All Saints Church in Apia.
Anglican Church Chapel⛪ church
Anglican chapel in Apia, Samoa.
China Aid Arts and Culture Centre
Arts and culture centre supported by China in Apia.
Museum of Samoa🏛 museum
Samoa's national museum in Apia.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the Loto Samasoni hydroelectric plant?
An important run-of-river plant for electricity generation on Upolu.
Can it be visited?
No, it is a closed operational facility.
What is the impact on the river?
Water is used for energy production and then released back.
Where exactly is the plant located?
It is located in a forested area near Apia.
Is it a modern facility?
It is a proven technical facility for power supply.
Loto Samasoni Hydro Plant: where is it located?
Loto Samasoni Hydro Plant is located in Samoa.
Loto Samasoni Hydro Plant: what is there to see?
Highlights include Leufisa Church of Jesus Christ and the Latter Day Saints, Western Samoa Retired Nurses Association, Lalovaea Sisifos Nature Reserve.
Loto Samasoni Hydro Plant: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Loto Samasoni Hydro Plant: why is it worth visiting?
The Loto Samasoni hydropower plant on the Vaisigano River is an integral part of Samoa's renewable energy strategy.
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