Continuing improvements in all sectors of the Northern Marianas public utilities help ensure that the islands will be prepared for a growing community and industry.

Two diesel power generation facilities currently provide ample power to the island of Saipan. The recent completion of a $5.4 million power distribution project on the island ensures continued reliable power well into the 21st century.

On Tinian, a new 10-megawatt power plant was completed in 1998, and a 30-megawatt expansion is underway.

On Rota, there is a new 1.5 megawatt generator.

In order to meet the demands for water, 11 new water wells were opened and 8 pipeline projects were completed in 1998. More than 14 new wells will be opened in 1999. In addition to deep water wells, facilities on Saipan, Tinian and Rota make use of reverse osmosis equipment and rainwater catchments.

A U.S.Environmental protection agency (EPA) certified water quality laboratory routinely tests the water at well sites, reservoirs and throughout all pipeline systems. Waste water is treated at EPA regulated "secondary or biological treatment" facilities. All facilities have additional capacity.

The construction of new roads and improvements of existing byways on the islands proceeds at a rapid pace. Projects are currently underway on Saipan to provide 4 lane access to major tourist areas.