Latest update November 21st, 2024 1:00 AM
More questions surround US$23M GPL meter contract
It was reported by this newspaper that China National Machinery Import & Export Corporation (CMC) was experiencing problems sourcing smart meters for the rehabilitation of the Guyana Power and Light (GPL)’s electricity distribution network.
However, it seems as though there is more to the issue than was previously stated.
It is unclear whether any sample meters were tested before the contract was award.
Speaking with GPL’s Deputy Chief Executive Officer – Technical, Elwyn Marshall, this publication sought to find out if any testing was done on meters presented as samples by the Chinese company.
According to Marshall, he is not sure if sample meters were ever tested. He added that he is unaware if any of the meters are in the country as yet. Though not knowing if any samples were presented for testing, Marshall did say that it is standard procedure for the meters to be tested.
When asked if any payments have been made to the company, Marshall said that based on his knowledge, no monies have been paid to the company.
“The project is supposed to start in May, but I doubt any payments were made. Even if payments were made, it would have to be for security purposes; an advance payment so to speak. But I am not aware if that’s the case.”
He said that the Chinese company would have offered two types of meters. The power company only found one to be suitable for the project. Marshall said that there was an agreement to go ahead with the suitable model.
As it relates to sourcing of the meter, Marshall said that he doesn’t believe the company would have any problem sourcing the meter which was agreed upon, since it is a model which is available worldwide.
The Deputy CEO said that as of yesterday, CMC has not done any work, and is still mobilising; “As I said, the project starts in May.”
CMC is partnering with China Sinogy Electric Engineering Co. Limited to complete the project at a cost of US$23M or G$4.6B. The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) and European Union (EU) are funding the part grant/part loan project.
This newspaper was informed that the company was experiencing problems in sourcing the required models. Due to this, the company had asked to source the meters from China. Also, information relayed suggested that the company did not provide the procurement entity, GPL, with any sample meters for testing before the contract was awarded.
This fact raises the question as to how the Chinese company evaluated and awarded the multibillion-dollar contract, since no sample was reportedly tested to ensure that they met specifications.
According to the contract, the company has to source over 20,000 meters for the project. Although this is not the only aspect of the venture, it is practical that the meters are sourced in time for when works begin so that the devices can be installed simultaneously as the rehabilitative works are being done.
Kaieteur News understands that among the requirements for the smart meters are their suitability to operate in a tropical climate and outdoor environment; able to measure domestic active energy and commercial and industrial loads; able to detect absence or presence of continuous power; must have indicators for testing and indication of consumption and must be able to support two-way communication.
More importantly, the devices are to possess the ability to remotely disconnect or connect electricity using software from a control centre, once they are integrated into a Power Line Carrier Technology (PLC).
In the first phase of the project, CMC should be procuring and installing transformers, cables and connectors and smart meters. The running of new lines for the medium and low voltage distribution network will target areas in Berbice and Demerara.
After the contract is implemented, the power company expects to record a sustained trend in overall loss reduction, an improved and accountable management performance against consistent key performance indicators and within minimum international standards and a more modern, efficient and reliable operational system.
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