Executive Council visits site of new power plant

The Executive Council of the Public Entity Saba recently visited the site where Saba’s new state of the art power plant is being constructed. The power plant of electricity provider, Saba Electric Company, is being relocated from its current location in Fort Bay to a site at higher elevation so that impact from hurricanes is reduced. The relocation of the power plant will also allow for re-development of the harbor, increasing its aesthetic appeal.

The new facility will boast two new generators, one that produces 1.3Megawatts of power and another that produces 960 kilowatts. These engines are manufactured by the Anglo-Belgian Corporation and turn at a speed of 720rpm versus the current engines which turn at a speed of 1800 rpm. The slower turning engines results in less fuel being burned and helps reduce costs for the electric company. Fuel for the power plant will be pumped from Shell storage facility directly to storage tanks at the facility. Three of the current generators will be also be moved to the new facility for back up.

The building is 5000 square feet and is constructed out of galvanized steel and is built to withstand high winds. The installation itself has some impressive features, such as floors that can absorb energy and sound proof material as part of the siding. Solar panels are being installed at the roof of the building. These panels will be able to produce 60kw of electricity which can be used at the power plant or can be fed into the grid.

The Executive Council stated that, “Relocating the power plant has been a priority for Saba Electric Company and the government. This increases the redundancy for the company while at the same time promotes resiliency for the island. This new power plant will also help to reduce the costs of producing power and is a step towards making the company profitable, while providing electricity in a more efficient way.”

Saba Government Information Service.