GPL Hosts Media Visit to Key Infrastructure Projects

Guyana Power and Light Inc. (GPL) hosted members of the media on a tour of several major electricity infrastructure projects and facilities, highlighting ongoing progress to expand, modernise and strengthen the national electricity network.

The visit was led by Head of GPL’s Executive Management Committee, Mr. Kesh Nandlall, along with Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Bharat Harjohn, and Director, Mr. Ryan Ross. The GPL team provided updates on the ongoing works and outlined the importance of these projects to the continued development of the company’s transmission and distribution network.

The media visited the Goedverwagting Substation, which will accommodate 230 kV and 69 kV infrastructure and serve as a key point in the expansion of GPL’s high-voltage transmission network. The facility will support the evacuation of bulk power from the 300 MW Natural-Gas-Fired Power Plant at Wales, West Bank Demerara, and enable transmission across the network. The new 230 kV transmission infrastructure will extend from Goedverwagting to Region Six, significantly increasing network capacity.

The tour continued at the Guyana National Control Centre (GNCC), which plays a critical role in the real-time monitoring, control and coordination of the electricity network. The GNCC will be equipped with a state-of-the-art Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system, supporting GPL’s transition towards a smart grid by providing greater visibility and control across the network.

The media also visited the sites of the new Enmore, Chateau Margot and Columbia substations, where construction is currently at the foundation stage. These facilities will form an important part of the expanded transmission network.

The tour included sections of the route for the new transmission lines. These works include:

• Approximately 155 kilometres of 230 kV double-circuit transmission lines to interconnect the Goedverwagting Substation with a new substation at Williamsburg, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne).
• Approximately 167 kilometres of 69 kV double-circuit transmission lines to replace existing infrastructure along the railway embankment.

Significant progress has already been achieved along the transmission corridor. Several monopoles have been erected to accommodate the 69 kV transmission line, while construction of the bases for the 230 kV transmission line is ongoing.

The media visit provided an opportunity to showcase GPL’s ongoing investments to expand and modernise the electricity network. These investments are intended to:

• Increase transmission capacity.
• Accommodate additional generation.
• Advance smart-grid capabilities.
• Strengthen network resilience.
• Improve the reliability of electricity supply across Guyana.

Together, these works represent progress in motion as GPL continues building the infrastructure needed to support Guyana’s growing energy needs.