Excavator damages GPL infrastructure, triggering widespread power outage

See full statement from the Guyana Power and Light Inc. 

At approximately 10:17 hrs today, the L1 Transmission Line, which interconnects the Garden of Eden and Grove Substations, experienced a system disturbance. The disturbance resulted in the Garden of Eden and Grove Substations going offline, creating an estimated 37-megawatt deficit on the network. This led to widespread service interruptions across sections of Demerara and Berbice, leaving thousands of customers without electricity supply.

Following a line inspection, GPL’s technical teams determined that an excavator operating at Grove, East Bank Demerara, came into contact with the transmission line, causing damage to critical transmission infrastructure and triggering the disturbance. The excavator involved is reportedly owned by S. Joseph Transportation & Machinery Rentals and was being operated by Mr. Garfield Hinds at the time of the incident.

Repowering efforts commenced immediately following the disturbance, with GPL’s teams working diligently to safely restore electricity supply to affected customers. Restoration progressed incrementally until the final affected area was successfully repowered at approximately 11:37 hrs, resulting in the full restoration of service to all impacted customers.

GPL has since commenced a formal investigation into the disturbance and the circumstances surrounding the incident. Additionally, the contractor responsible will be pursued for compensation to recover the costs associated with damages caused to GPL’s transmission infrastructure.

GPL reminds contractors and members of the public that any excavation, construction, or heavyduty operations near the company’s transmission and distribution infrastructure must be coordinated with GPL to ensure safety and protect the reliability of the electricity network. Unauthorized or unsafe activities near GPL’s infrastructure can result in significant service disruptions, damage to critical assets, and pose serious risks to public safety.

GPL apologises for the inconvenience caused and thanks customers for their patience and understanding during the restoration process.