The Guyana Power and Light Inc (GPL) has begun testing a new 2.2-megawatt generating unit at its Bartica Power Station, more than two months after its previously announced commissioning target.

In a notice issued yesterday, GPL advised that customers could experience brief interruptions in electricity supply as testing progresses and the unit is integrated into the system.

The company said the generator would increase Bartica’s installed generation capacity from 5 megawatts to 7.2 megawatts, a 44 per cent increase. The additional capacity is intended to support future growth and improve the reliability of electricity supply.

Kiskadee Watch reported on June 16 that GPL expected the new Cummins Generating Set #4 to be commissioned by the end of July. At that time, the utility said the unit would provide additional reserve capacity to accommodate residential, commercial and industrial growth in Bartica and surrounding communities.

The latest notice did not explain why testing was taking place beyond the earlier commissioning target or give a date for the unit to enter regular service.

There is also a difference between GPL’s earlier and current capacity figures. In June, the company put Bartica’s existing generation capacity at 5.3 megawatts and peak demand at approximately 3 megawatts. Its latest notice uses an installed capacity figure of 5 megawatts, without explaining the difference.

Bartica also benefits from a 1.5-megawatt solar farm, which GPL previously said forms part of its efforts to diversify electricity generation and combine thermal and renewable sources. 

GPL said the new generating unit forms part of its programme to expand and modernise electricity infrastructure across the country. It apologised for any inconvenience caused by the testing and thanked customers for their patience.