Lightning plunges Port Kaituma into darkness

Sep 29, 2014 News

By Rabindra Rooplall

Electricity woes continued in Port Kaituma, North West District on Friday after lightning damaged the computer box attached to the generators at Port Kaituma Power and Light (PKPL) that service the community.
According to residents, the community has been left without power. It was explained that GT&T and Digicel had experienced situations similar to what occurred and steps were taken to prevent a recurrence by installing lightning arresters.
A lightning arrester is a device used on electrical power systems and telecommunications systems to protect the insulation and conductors of the system from the damaging effects of lightning.
However, residents further noted that the issue with lighting striking and damaging the Port Kaituma Power and Light computer box is nothing new. They say it happened previously and millions were spent to purchase a new one.
“The directors of the Port Kaituma Power and Light board should be removed, since they do not take advice from persons who specialize in the field or residents who know exactly what is happening. The government needs to stop placing square pegs in round holes,” one resident said.
Last July, residents reported that the PKPL had acquired a new generator but the system encountered several mechanical problems, in addition to issues with fuel.
It was also explained that there are two other generators, the 628 KVA and 500 KVA, which are under constant repairs owing to the lack of suitable parts. As such, a new engine had been purchased but residents claimed that it was burning excessive fuel.
Representatives of Port Kaituma Power and Light disclosed that the power supply should be restored today.

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