Guyana Power and Light Inc (GPL) says work is progressing on several major projects under its Grid Modernization Programme, including the construction of new substations, expansion of the transmission network and installation of a battery energy storage system aimed at improving the reliability of the national electricity grid.
In a statement yesterday, GPL said the updates were provided during a project review meeting at the Ministry of Public Utilities and Aviation attended by Director General Alfonso De Armas, GPL’s executive management, engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contractors and representatives of InterEnergy Holdings UK.
Among the projects reviewed was the Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) river crossing, which forms part of the transmission infrastructure linked to the Gas-to-Energy project at Wales.
GPL said works on the West Bank of Demerara have advanced to the stage where the HDD equipment has been installed and areas for pipe stringing and welding completed. On the East Bank, mobilisation of drilling equipment began on July 12, while the first shipment of polyethylene pipes has arrived. Welding of the pipes is expected to begin this week, with the first drilling operation anticipated within about two weeks.
The company also reported progress on its transmission and substation expansion programme, under which contractors PowerChina and Kalpataru are expected to construct eight new substations and expand several existing ones. GPL said materials for the projects are currently being shipped to Guyana while site preparation and civil works continue.
According to GPL, the upgrades are intended to improve the reliability, flexibility and efficiency of the transmission network as electricity demand continues to grow.
The company also announced that engineering and design work has commenced on a 30-megawatt, 60-megawatt-hour Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), which is scheduled for completion by March next year. GPL said the facility is expected to enhance grid stability and improve the integration of additional generating capacity into the national network.
Progress was also reported on the Primary Distribution Feeder Programme, under which contractors CMC, PowerChina and Kalpataru are to construct 55 new primary distribution feeders spanning approximately 368 kilometres across Regions Three, Four, Five and Six.
GPL said the programme is expected to increase network capacity, improve service reliability and reduce outages.
GPL Executive Management Committee Team Lead Kesh Nandlall said the projects represent a significant investment in the country’s electricity infrastructure.
“These projects represent a transformational investment in Guyana’s electricity infrastructure. As we continue to modernize the grid, we are creating a stronger, more resilient and efficient power system that will deliver improved reliability for customers while supporting the country’s expanding development agenda,” he said.
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