DOMLEC thanks the public for its patience and understanding regarding the load shedding over the past few months.
While the situation was much improved over the last couple of weeks we wish to advise on a recent development.
On November 7, 2023, sections of the pipeline serving the Trafalgar hydropower station were severely damaged by a landslide consisting of mainly heavy boulders. Three sections of piping as well as a key concrete pipe support structure were damaged, while one section of pipe, along with the aforementioned pipe support was completely dislodged and washed downstream by the resulting deluge.
Fortunately, damage to the surrounding environment and nearby DOMLEC and third-party facilities was minimal and the cleanup operations are in an advanced state of completion.
As a result of the above incident, the following are the effects on DOMLEC’s generating system and capacity:
- The Hydro Trafalgar Power Station will be out of service, resulting in a loss of 1.75MW currently
- A reduction of our overall Available Capacity to levels below our expected Peak Load demand.
DOMLEC has taken immediate action to correct the situation. We have immediately commenced the requisite activities to ensure the restoration of this critical piping section in the fastest timeframe, including the deployment of key staff and the engagement of a competent and qualified contractor.
Note, however, that until this piping system has been restored, it is with regret that we will have to immediately revert to the implementation of Load Management Measures, inclusive of Load Shedding. Based on the current shortfall, we do not expect that the Load Shedding process will be as widespread and of the same scale as before. As was previously done, the projected Load Shedding schedules will be provided on a timely basis, to facilitate our customers and their daily business and personal activities.
DOMLEC will ensure that the customers are kept up to date on the progress of this latest incident through our twice-weekly radio briefings, our Social Media Platforms, and other available mediums.