SEI might use grass to produce fuel for generators

Skeldon Energy Inc (SEI) is exploring the possibility of using grass to produce steam for its turbine generators as the main source of fuel.
Following successful tests of its power steam generation using firewood, SEI is now saying that the giant king grass can produce more steam. The giant king grass grows up to 10 feet in height.
SEI is currently using wood as fuel for the plant. While producing sugar at the Skeldon Factory may no longer be an option, SEI is still hoping to ensure the continued use of the Co-gen Plant, and job creation.
The giant king grass was introduced to Guyana a few years ago for the same purpose. The grass is to be used to feed the boilers that generate steam return to steam turbines.
SEI has two 15-megawatt turbines. The turbines would require 300-400 tons of grass for a 24-hour period.
Farmers who are interested in cultivating the grass will be given seedlings.
SEI Operations Manager John Lonckee told Guyana Times that a five-acre nursery of the giant king grass has already been established.
“From that plot we would send to the farmers who are willing to grow the grass and within grass at about eight feet in height,” Lonckee explained.
The project aims at benefiting cane farmers who were left jobless owing to the closure of the estate.
Former SEI Board Member Gobin Harbhajan explained that apart from cane farmers, persons with large quantities of land were also being invited to be part of the project.
Recently, the SEI met with them to introduce the project.
“This cycle of grass has two crops…. The SEI management will work out arrangements for transportation and advise on how they can plant it.”
The giant king grass project is being touted as one way to reduce the unemployment rate on the Corentyne.
Harbhajan says there will be a guaranteed market for the grass.
“The Co-gen Plant which utilises biomass fuel is here to stay. No matter what happens.
It is a business opportunity, get to supply the grass despite who takes over the Co-gen because they will need wood, grass, etc, and this grass is feasible. Pest would not affect it and it grows up to 10 feet and you can harvest it for 10 years,” Harbhajan said.
The Co-generation Plant was purchased from GuySuCo for an announced price of US$30 million by SEI – a special purpose company owned by the Government’s holding company, the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL), and the Guyana Power and Light (GPL).