PPDI denies using Chinese-made parts for power plant maintenance

The state-run Power Producers and Distributors Inc. (PPDI), which operates and maintains four power plants on behalf of the Guyana Power and Light Inc. (GPL), yesterday debunked assertions that it is using Chinese-made spare parts in the execution of its maintenance activities.

Through a press release yesterday afternoon, the company said that it wanted to respond to the assertions that are being made through a voice-note that has been circulating social media with specific claims about the company.

It said that they wanted to inform all stakeholders that the claim of Chinese-made spare parts being used in the execution of their maintenance activities is “completely false.”

The company noted that their Operations and Maintenance Agreement with its sister entity, GPL, specifically states that they use Original Equipment Manufacturer spares and supplies. “Our governance structure, particularly the Board Tender Committee, includes independent personnel and a management representative of the [GPL] who must approve all major acquisitions of spare parts,” the statement added, while noting that the two major suppliers of their operations are Wartsila and ABB Turbochargers.

The statement went on to say that as a new company, it is often required to make advance payments for spare parts and supplies, and in some cases, they range from 100% to 50%. It said that purchases with those commercial terms guarantee early delivery of spares and supplies.

The company said that it has also succeeded in securing credit facilities from major world class manufactures including Wartsila, Alfa Laval and ABB Turbochargers.

“Currently, we have one engine that is down for a major overhaul at the Kin 2 plant, which has started and is expected to be completed in a month,” the statement noted, while adding that the company is an ISO-9001 certified company and is committed to providing quality operations and maintenance services, and remains dedicated to the supply of stable and reliable electricity to GPL, and by extension, the Guyanese people.