Sinclair Knight Merz carried out a detailed inspection of all the generating plant on the island of Guam to evaluate the causes of the low availability and blackouts of power. Over three months, Sinclair Knight Merz reviewed the generating requirements and planning policies of the client, and recommended means of quickly correcting the situation
The total generation on the island was over 400 MW and included a 2 x 66 MW oil fired steam plant, a smaller steam plant, gas turbines and diesel engines down to 2 MW. The project involved looking at the predicted long term load growth and formulating a plan for the expansion of generation facilities by one or more Independent Power Producers (IPPs).
The eventual outcome included signing contracts with three IPPs for:
- the refurbishment of a 2 x 25 MW steam station, returning it to service and operating it for 20 years
- the supply and operation of a 40 MW gas turbine plant
- a build, own and operate contract for a new 2 x 40 MW slow speed diesel power plant.
The involvement of Sinclair Knight Merz in this generation review for the Guam Power Authority demonstrates its skills in the following areas:
- expertise in determining generating requirements
- experience in negotiating with IPPs.