Strengthening the Energy Matrix Diversification
Project Description
Under Operation GY-L1066, Strengthening the Energy Matrix Diversification specifically in Component 2, the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) is dedicated to supporting GPL through strategic investments.
The primary objective of this initiative is to fortify GPL’s transmission infrastructure, aiming to enhance the reliability and stability of the Demerara-Berbice Interconnected System (DBIS).
Key activities
- Transmission redundancy
Construction of a new 5km 69-kV transmission line (L5-R) and upgrade of the existing line (L5) to 100MVA, exceeding the current 50MVA capacity. Both lines will use new steel pole structures along the existing route to improve the resiliency of GPL’s transmission infrastructure. - Replacement and upgrade
Replacement and upgrade of two existing 12km transmission lines (L1 and L3) from Garden of Eden to Golden Grove. This involves the creation of new redundant 69kV circuits for improved system resiliency and stability, utilizing 75-feet minimum, low-density steel poles designed to withstand harsh weather conditions. - Capacitor banks installation
Installation of capacitor banks in four (4) GPL substations (Edinburgh – Region 3, New Sophia – Region 4, Columbia – Region 5, and #53 – Region 6) to improve voltage regulation and the quality of electricity supplied. - Standards for storage and disposal
Definition of standards for the storage and disposal of unused electric equipment, serving as a guide for managing obsolete solar panels and batteries within the GUYSOL program as well as other renewable energy initiatives under GPL. - Corporate gender and diversity
Development of a Corporate Gender and Diversity Analysis for GPL, now developed and could be used in GPL’s policies, offering significant career growth and development opportunities for women in scientific, technical, and engineering fields.
Anticipated benefits of Component 2 include
Enhanced grid flexibility and resilience
Incorporation of capacitor banks and new transmission lines, providing increased flexibility in power flow management, thereby enhancing the grid’s resilience and reducing the impact of disturbances and outages.
Incorporation of capacitor banks and new transmission lines, providing increased flexibility in power flow management, thereby enhancing the grid’s resilience and reducing the impact of disturbances and outages.
Reduction in outages
Improved grid reliability leading to fewer outages and shorter outage durations. This improvement aims to minimize disruptions to businesses and households.
Improved grid reliability leading to fewer outages and shorter outage durations. This improvement aims to minimize disruptions to businesses and households.
