Lindeners affected by constant power outages

−electricity being supplied via shift system

Over the past few months, communities across Linden, in Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) have been affected by an increase in power outages due to issues encountered by the main power supplier, Bosai Minerals Group Guyana Incorporated (BMGGI). The intermittent daily power outages have resulted in both Wismar and Mackenzie being without electricity for hours at a time. Residents have expressed dissatisfaction over the frequent outages and have expressed frustration at the situation, particularly during this festive season. Presently, Wismar and Mackenzie are reportedly being supplied with electricity via a shift system.

The Wismar community, however, which receives electricity through the Linden Utility Services Coop Society Limited (LUSCSL) has been affected more than Mackenzie, which is being served through the Linden Electricity Company Incorporated (LECI). Over the past few days, there has been an increase in the frequency of daily outages at Wismar.

However, in a recent televised notice to residents in the community, the LUSCSL apologised to consumers on the Wismar shore, pointing to the fact that the issue lies within Bosai. “The Linden Utility Services Coop Society Limited apologises to members/consumers for the periodic power outages being experienced. This is due to technical difficulties at Bosai’s power station which is causing insufficient power supply to Wismar. Management regrets any inconvenience caused during these periods and is looking for an early solution to the current situation,” the statement noted. Meanwhile, during a visit by Natural Resources Minister Raphael Trotman to the company back in August, Bosai Company Secretary Norman McLean, had cited the frequent blackouts in the community as one of the company’s major issues and pointed out that the company, which is tasked with providing electricity, has eight “old” Wärtsilä generators.

“I don’t want to have what we had before, which is long blackouts and we have to stop production. Maybe that is what we need to do, stop production so that the community can get power… we are stating the challenges and we are fighting,” he had said, while adding that the company is looking forward for Government to be an active partner in providing assistance.