PNG POWER BOSS PUT ON NOTICE

PNG Power Chief Executive Officer John Tangit has been put on notice following continuous power outages within the National Capital District.

Mr. Tangit was put on notice this week by the Independent Public Business Corporation Chairman Wasantha Kumarasiri following orders from the top hierarchy as a result of growing frustrations from business houses.

Mr. Kumarasiri explained that the blackouts are a result of load shedding by PNG Power as its two gas turbines at Kanudi are redundant including a 12-megawatts generator belonging to the independent power supplier Hanjung Power. 

This has resulted in PPL generating only 108-megawatts of power which is a shortfall of 25-megawatts. 

Mr. Tangit also explained that a major contributing factor to power generation issues is the low level of water at the Sirinumu Dam. 

Tangit says the level has dropped to 57% which is an alarming rate as its very slow thus affecting the volume of water released from the dam and the generation of power. 

He explained that once water reaches 50% it would be soley for water consumption. 

But the good news is the required parts for the gas turbines are expected to be in the country tomorrow from Singapore which would see the fitting over the weekend and a reduction in the load shedding by next week. 

The PPL CEO also pointed out that the contract with Hanjung Power will expire by next year and PPL is going through due diligence checks and it is now addressing the way forward for the new contract that PNG Power may sign with Hanjung if it comes on board again next year. 

Meantime, Mr Kumarasiri also announced that Deloitte has been appointed to carry out an investigation into this issue. 

The investigation commenced today and a preliminary report is expected on Tuesday.