Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo has unveiled the government’s ambitious plan to modernize the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) transmission network across Georgetown and other key areas.
Speaking at a recent press conference, Vice President Jagdeo emphasized the critical need to stabilize GPL’s grid in light of expanding power generation capacity.
He announced a significant investment of 200 million dollars aimed at upgrading the grid.
This initiative includes adding more transformers and improving existing lines to ensure a more reliable distribution system.
Vice President Jagdeo highlighted the importance of these infrastructure improvements alongside efforts to increase overall power supply.
The upcoming gas-to-energy project, scheduled to begin in 2025, aims to inject an additional 300 megawatts into the national grid.
However, Vice President Jagdeo pointed out that current transmission systems are insufficient to efficiently handle this capacity.
He cited the recent docking of a 35-megawatt power ship in Berbice as an example, noting that existing lines cannot adequately transmit such capacities to essential substations like Sophia from Kingston.
To address these challenges, the government has awarded a five-million-dollar contract for upgrading transmission lines from Kingston to Sophia.
Additionally, plans are underway to consider installing a transmission main along the Soesdyke/Linden Highway to bolster power supply in that region.
Looking forward, Vice President Jagdeo discussed ongoing assessments to utilize gas for turbine power in Bartica, Essequibo Coast, Lethem, and Linden.
These initiatives are expected to significantly enhance energy access across remote communities and support economic development.
The government’s proactive measures underscore its commitment to strengthening energy security and enhancing infrastructure resilience to foster Guyana’s overall development.