Since when Wartsilla became involved in bids?

Jan 08, 2011 Letters

Dear Editor,
The article in Kaieteur News of January 1, 2011, entitled, “GPL Engineer’s estimate draws angry reaction”, drew my attention for several reasons.
The first of which is the huge discrepancy/difference between the engineer’s estimate and most of the bids. The difference is indeed staggering and should be investigated.
But this should not be, because this is not the first time that a foundation is being built for Wartsilla Sets. Since the mid 1990s Wartsilla sets were built at Garden of Eden, Kingston, Anna Regina and Skeldon.
Surely by now GPL must have an idea of the approximate cost of this project. All that is required is periodic updating of costs of individual items. But my attention was particularly drawn to the remarks of Mr. Dindyal the GPL CEO.
He talked too much. These bids were submitted for evaluation and he has no right to be discussing these matters in the press, while the bids are being evaluated. It is the job of the committee evaluating the bids to speak when the process is completed and the job is awarded.
I find it strange that although bids have been invited, that certain specifications still have to be finalised by Wartsilla. And since when Wartsilla is involved in dealing with bids for foundation. I thought that they were just supplying equipment and would be working with local contractors, but certainly not the business of evaluating bids. All of this sounds funny and malodorous.
GPL needs to get its act together and if they want to speak to the press they can give a breakdown of how 15.6 MW of power from Wartsilla ends up costing US$18M when the previous sets were required at less than US$1M per MW installed.
And are these sets brand new or second hand/used? Are any commission or finder’s fees paid on this deal?
John King

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