GPL Secures Additional Power Ship to Meet Growing Electricity Demand
November 15, 2024 — Guyana Power and Light (GPL) Inc. has signed a contract with the Joint Venture, Karpowership Global DMCC & UCC Energy International LLC JV, to charter a second power ship with a total installed capacity of 75 megawatts (MW) for a two-year period.
The agreement aims to address the country’s increasing electricity demand, with the first 60 MW set to be added to the grid in approximately six weeks, followed by an additional 15 MW once work on a new transmission line is completed.
Under the terms of the contract, GPL will pay the Joint Venture a monthly charter fee of 8.52 US cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh) and a monthly operation and maintenance fee of 0.98 US cents per kWh, based on electricity generated. GPL will also be responsible for providing the heavy fuel oil required for the power ship’s operation.
A statement from GPL indicates that the new power ship will be stationed in the Demerara River and connected to GPL’s grid at 69 kV. Preparatory work to accommodate the power ship and establish the necessary interconnection has already begun.
Kesh Nandlall, Head of GPL’s Executive Management Committee, highlighted the importance of this contract in strengthening GPL’s power generation capabilities, with the power ship expected to be operational and integrated into the national grid within six weeks.
Antonio Neto, Managing Director of the Americas for UCC Holdings, underscored the urgency of the project and pledged his company’s commitment to meeting the agreed-upon timelines.
Public Works Minister, Deodat Indar, speaking on behalf of Prime Minister Mark Phillips, emphasized the government’s commitment to meeting Guyana’s rising energy demands. He also called on GPL to maintain rigorous upkeep of its transmission and distribution networks to avoid unnecessary power outages.
Senior Minister within the Office of the President responsible for Finance and the Public Service, Hon. Dr. Ashni Singh, lauded the initiative as vital for addressing the immediate rise in electricity demand driven by new industries, residential expansion, and increased commercial activities. He noted that the government is advancing the Gas-to-Energy project, which will add 300 MW to the grid upon completion, further ensuring a reliable and sustainable power supply.
