January load shedding schedule, just in case

GPA has been actively addressing solutions to ensure adequate generation for the island since the beginning of 2023. Projects to improve power generation capacity was significantly hindered initially by the COVID-19 pandemic and further delayed by Typhoon Mawar that caused damages to the 198- megawatt Ukudu Power plant and the 20-megawatt Yigo Combustion Turbine. “GPA continues to work on a multipronged approach and future solutions to minimize disruptions, resolve our power system shortfall, and increase generation capacity to meet the power needs of the island. The power generation teams have been working tirelessly to optimize the output of every power plant. GPA’s engineers and technical teams continue to prioritize generation projects,” states GPA General Manager, John M. Benavente, P.E. The lower weather temperatures and concerted efforts to conserve energy have resulted in decreased power demand through December. “We ask our customers to help us get through this challenging but temporary situation. Your continued support through the Interruptible Load Program and basic conservation measures at your homes and businesses help tremendously. We thank you for your patience,” added Benavente.

GPA’s Multipronged Approach and Future Solutions

Piti 7 Repair of the Plenum
ECD: December 3, 2023
Capacity: 22MW to 30MW
COMPLETED AHEAD OF SCHEDULE 11/30

Procuring Temporary Power ECD: May 2024 if no other delays Capacity: 40MW

Returning Caterpillar and Wartsila Units to Service (which will increase plant capacity) ECD: April 2024
Capacity: 17MW

Repairing the Typhoon-Damaged Yigo Combustion Turbine ECD: February 2024
Capacity: 20MW

Utilizing Existing Energy Storage Batteries (ESS) (to shift energy to peak time) ECD: March 2024
Capacity: 40MWh for peak hours

Continuing to Expand Interruptible Load Capacity ECD: Ongoing
Capacity: Approx. 16MW currently

The PUC commissioners approved the procurement of 40 MW of temporary power generation during its November 30, 2023 meeting, with the emergency procurement issued in December 2023 and a targeted commissioning date of May 2024, barring any other delays. Additionally, GPA has authorized the emergency procurement of supplies, services, and minor construction work to increase generation capacity for the Yigo, Tenjo, Manenggon and Talo’fo’fo diesel generators.

GPA notes that the load shedding outage data for December 2023 demonstrates nominal overall impact.

Load Shedding Data as of December 31, 2023

Actual Outage Days in December: 2 days
Average Hrs/Feeder Lost for December: 0.71
Average Hrs/Feeders Lost since September 1, 2023: 14.8 hours

GPA would also like to note, that certain feeder descriptions have changed to provide clarity for parts of Anigua, Barrigada, Hagåtña, Mangilao, Mongmong-Toto-Maite, and Sinajana.

GPA continues to encourage customers to conserve energy during peak hours. Simple steps, such as minimizing the use of non-essential electrical appliances such as air conditioning and water heaters between 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. can contribute to the overall stability of the power grid.

GPA appreciates the continued cooperation and understanding of the community as we navigate these temporary challenges together. GPA remains committed to providing reliable and sustainable power to the residents and businesses of Guam.

For the latest information on rotating outages and tips to conserve energy during peak hours, please visit GPA’s website at www.guampowerauthority.com and follow our social media pages. The January 2024 schedule is posted on the website.