Power generation in Bartica to increase by 2.2 megawatts by July month-end

The town of Bartica, Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), will soon receive a 2.2 megawatt (MW) generating set, significantly enhancing its power generation capacity—a development that has been welcomed by Mayor Anthony Murray. The Guyana Power and Light Inc (GPL) on Monday announced that it will be increasing its generation capacity in Bartica with the addition of a new Cummins Generating Set #4, which is expected to be commissioned by the end of July 2026. The new generating set has a capacity of 2.2 MW, significantly enhancing GPL’s ability to meet the growing electricity demand in Bartica and surrounding communities.
Bartica currently has a generation capacity of 5.3 MW, while peak demand stands at approximately 3 MW. The addition of the new generating unit will further strengthen the reliability and stability of electricity supply while providing additional reserve capacity to support continued residential, commercial and industrial growth in the township. Bartica also benefits from a 1.5 MW solar farm. The increase in power generation capacity was welcomed by Mayor, Anthony Murray. Speaking with this publication via telephone, Murray said all sectors of the town’s economy will benefit from the investment. “Certainly, it will improve generating service to the township. Reliability is one benefit. Secondly, I think that this unit will serve as a standby. In the event that any one of these sets goes down for repairs or servicing, this unit will definitely pick up the load. It also helps to meet the needs of our growing community through new housing schemes and development and will serve the capacity that is required.” Turning his attention to critical facilities such as health centres and schools, Murray highlighted the importance of a stable power supply.

“Certainly, having consistent generation of power to these health centres is very important. Not only are we depending on power generated through fossil fuels, but the Government is also putting in place solar facilities and solar farms that help cushion any shortfall. These health centres are also equipped with solar systems, so if there is any interruption, the solar installations can provide support.”

No persistent power outage
While he said there is no persistent issue of power outage in the town, Murray noted that the increased power generation capacity will contribute to an even more stable electricity supply for residents. “No, not really. There aren’t a lot of power outages. You might have a few if the system is affected by an external issue, such as a branch falling on a line or something similar. But outside of that, there is no issue of blackouts as a major problem. We have consistent power generation throughout the township.” When asked whether businesses had expressed a need for additional electricity capacity, he said there have been no major concerns.
“Not anything alarming that would affect businesses or residents. Nothing that would cause concern. Anything that happens is normally addressed within a very short period of time and service is restored. There is nothing alarming that would suggest there is a problem at the generating station. So there is no issue there.”
Meanwhile, Murray said the investment reflects the Government’s commitment to supporting development across the country.

“Certainly, the Government, its agencies and the Subject Ministries are working as our country continues to develop and transform. This is testimony and evidence that the Government is doing what is necessary through its agencies. I think residents certainly welcome these initiatives and the efforts being made to provide consistent and satisfactory services across our communities.”
According to GPL, the addition of the new generating set underscores its commitment to expanding and modernising electricity infrastructure to meet increasing customer demand and support economic development in hinterland communities.