Berbice power supply unimpeded

GINA, GUYANA, Monday, September 5, 2016

Electricity distribution in Berbice, Region Six is unhindered, despite the Vreed-en-Hoop power station’s sub-marine cable being damaged.

Speaking to the Government Information Agency (GINA), Acting Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Guyana Power and Light (GPL), Renford Homer said that there is still sufficient capacity within the Demerara /Berbice system even to meet the peak hours of consumption from 6:30 hrs to 21:00hrs (9:00pm).

However, in the event the engines breakdown, it would be a challenge for the power company to maintain proper electricity distribution. “We’ve not seen that happen which speaks well to the condition of our generator to date, and I’m just hoping that the generation holds well until we resolve the issue with the submarine cable,” Homer explained.

The acting Deputy CEO told GINA that the Demerara/Berbice interconnected system has made a significant difference in Berbice towards reducing the number of power outages, and high levels of voltage fluctuation. Homer explained that when GPL achieved the interconnection in 2014, it was applauded by the Berbicians who were very relieved with the initiative.

“The position as we speak still stands. The interconnection is still there, and we are still moving our power from Georgetown, in this case from Kingston and Garden of Eden where we have the bulk of our generation,” Homer pointed out.

Additionally, the power supply to Berbice is also being supplemented through power from cogeneration from the Skeldon plant which produces both renewable, and fossil fuel generation.

In the interim, the power company is in the process of acquiring the necessities to rectify the damaged submarine cable. Homer explained that the company is currently negotiating with two suppliers who are skilled in this type of work.

The submarine cable is expected to be back in operation by the end of November. “November that may sound like a long time, but this type of operation is delicate and intricate. It is one that requires specialised resources, and the equipment which is used to do the joining is sophisticated. It is not only joining conductors which carry electricity, we also have to join the fiber cable which is also encased in the submarine cable,” the acting deputy CEO explained.

The Vreed-en-Hoop submarine cable was recently damaged leading to the frequent power failures.