Former Minister Identifies Key Causes of Blackouts and Low Voltage in Guyana’s Power Grid

by Nicole Telford

Former Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson, has cited a range of factors contributing to the ongoing issues of blackouts and low voltage experienced across communities in Guyana. Patterson, an engineer and Opposition Parliamentarian representing A Partnership for National Unity and Alliance for Change (APNU/AFC), emphasized that these problems are a result of inadequate planning, subpar equipment quality, lack of equipment maintenance, and the performance of Guyana Power and Light’s (GPL) CEO.

During an interview, Patterson pointed out that under the APNU/AFC’s tenure between 2018 and 2019, they ensured a consistent power supply by installing 63.5% of new power into the Demerara-Berbice Interconnected System (DBIST) Grid. He highlighted that since the People’s Progressive Party Civic Party took power in 2020, there has been a lack of effort in addressing generation and distribution challenges in the power sector. Patterson likened the situation to a car without batteries or wheels, emphasizing the need for proactive planning and maintenance to ensure a smoothly functioning power grid.

Patterson recalled that leading up to the 2015 elections, blackouts were a prevalent issue. Upon taking office, the APNU/AFC initiated a power generation study and recognized the need for 10 to 15 megawatts of new power each year. Ernst and Young, a reputable global company, and an expert from Jamaica were consulted to assess Guyana’s power grid, revealing multiple vulnerabilities. Patterson explained that addressing the 17 identified issues required building alternative power lines to support the grid and prevent extensive blackouts.

Additionally, the expert recommended in-house training for line maintenance staff and the acquisition of better-quality equipment to address reliability issues. Patterson highlighted that GPL had previously accepted subpar equipment, such as meters that were prone to failure after just a few years, despite their intended lifespan of 10 to 15 years.

Patterson also noted that under the previous board’s scrutiny, CEO Bharrat Dindyal’s performance was deemed inadequate, leading to a recommendation against renewing his contract in 2015. However, upon the PPP/C’s return to power in 2020, Dindyal was reinstated as CEO of GPL.

Patterson’s insights shed light on the complex challenges and factors contributing to the electricity supply issues facing Guyana, emphasizing the importance of effective planning and equipment quality in maintaining a reliable power grid.