IMPROVING the quality of electricity supply to its customers continues to be a top priority for the Guyana Power and Light Incorporated (GPL). With support from both the government and international organisations, the power company continues to work assiduously to strengthen and expand its generation, transmission and distribution systems.

The company’s hard work has begun to bear fruit and in March of this year the company marked a significant accomplishment with the commissioning of its US$8.5 million 5.5- Megawatt Power Plant in Canefield, Berbice.

The power station is part of the Demerara/Berbice Inter-Connected System (DBIS) which is linked by 69,000 volts and supplies electricity mainly in Berbice. Prior to the installation of the power plant, the old Mirrlees Blackstone Engine commissioned in the 1970s produced 4.5 MW of power generation and had already completed 130,000 running hours.
This vital investment has resulted in residents within the area being supplied with a more stable electricity supply and improved voltages.

Regional Executive Officer, Region Six, Kim Stephen-Williams lauded GPL for the initiative which she said has significantly enhanced the lives of residents. Stephen-Williams stated that “Berbice, particularly East Corentyne, is very appreciative of the power station, improved voltage and constant flow of electricity for us now and ultimately no more damages to appliances. Street lights remain lit and help safeguard us from predators. Anything that enhances the life of persons, the administration appreciates and expresses thanks to GPL and the Government of Guyana.” Stephens -Williams added that most importantly the new upgrade has seen students, who rely tremendously on the electricity for their studies, being able to do so effectively without frequent disruptions.
Following this achievement, in April, GPL once again recorded another significant achievement with the commissioning of its $1.8B, 5.4 Megawatt Power Plant at Anna Regina, Region Two. The new power plant was 100 per cent financed by GPL. The electricity is distributed from three new 1.8 MW generators which supply the entire Essequibo Coast at peak. The facility is also outfitted with an administration building, control room, water treatment plant and an incinerator.

Regional Executive Officer, Region Two, Dennis Jaikaran related that the region has transformed from a region with a series of blackouts to one with little to no blackouts. He explained that since the completion of the new Power Plant economic activities in the region have been boosted. “The residents are very satisfied with the installation of the new plant and satisfied with the services provided by GPL. There has been a significant improvement in businesses due to regular supply of electricity and more persons are even venturing out into new fields due to the improvement. We are very thankful for this improvement by GPL,” Jaikaran explained. These achievements are just some of the projects GPL has in its pipeline as it heightens efforts to enhance operational efficiency and services to new and existing customers.