President Granger assures energy security with new 3.3mw Bartica power plant
―Third power plant commissioned for 2019
DPI, Guyana, Saturday, December 28, 2019
After enduring 18 years of electricity woes with an old power plant, Barticans in the Cuyuni-Mazaruni Region can now enjoy improved living standards following the commissioning of a 3.3megawatt power plant.
His Excellency President Granger ushered in the new era for the electricity sector in the Region 7 township.
“For you Barticans, the plant will strengthen your role and your position and the leading community- the hub of development of the Cuyuni-Mazaruni Region,” the Head of State stated during the feature address.
“The plant demonstrates your Government’s commitment to Bartica and its commitment to the Cuyuni-Mazaruni Region. It signals the continued success of your Government’s efforts to improve the quality of life of citizens and at the same time to enable an environment conducive to business development,” he added.
The Head of State noted that energy security is the driving force of human development within the Bartica township, thereby making the establishment of the plant even more critical.
With this $800Million power plant, the Head of State expressed his confidence that its generating capacity will not only meet the township’s demands but exceed them.
As of January 1, 2020, he assured his Government will ensure the ‘decade of development’ transforms the energy sector through initiatives such as the provision of incentives for energy producers who wish to supply power to both the national grid and rural communities.
In his remarks, Minister of Public Infrastructure Hon. David Patterson highlighted plans to transform the Bartica into a green town. According to the Infrastructure Minister, “plans are onstream to install a 1.5mw solar PV farm with storage in Bartica. This project is currently in the procurement stage with international bids opening on January 7, 2020.”
Minister Patterson further explained, “The supply of electricity from renewable sources will further be increased by connecting the power supply in Bartica with the 1.mw hydropower plant to be built by the GEA at Itiribisi.”
Bartica’s new powerplant is outfitted with three 1.1megawatt high-speed diesel engines. The older power plant could not fully supply the township.
First Lady Sandra Granger and officials from various branches of government attended the commissioning ceremony. Bartica’s 3.3mewatt power plant joins the list of two other plants commissioned in 2019. Those powerplants are located in Anna Regina, Region 2, and Canefield, Region 6.