PPL hydro generation impacted by drought

The Sirinumu Dam water levels have dropped during the dry period *(Image: Supplied)*

Reduced water levels from Sirinumu Dam has directly impacted hydro generation capacity across the Rouna hydropower cascading stations, according to PNG Power chief executive officer Paul Payly.

The water drop has resulted in a reduction in available renewable generation on the Port Moresby power grid.

Bayly, who is currently out of the country released a media statement outlining that PPL is currently supplementing this reduced hydro output with diesel thermal generation at Moitaka Power Station to maintain grid stability and minimize the number of feeders currently being on load shedding.

He also said PPL has implemented several water release reduction and generation management measures to conserve water and responsibly manage the Sirinumu Dam reservoir through the current drought period.

The electricity service provider is working in close coordination with Water PNG and relevant government authorities to ensure that, while power generation water releases are reduced, the minimum required raw water discharge for the city’s water supply system is maintained throughout they dry weather conditions.

Meantime, residential, commercial and industrial electricity customers in the National Capital District and Central Province have been urged to practise responsible energy usage during this critical drought period.

When issuing this call, Bayly encouraged simple steps such as avoiding high electricity consumption during peak hours of (am to 4pm and 6pm to 8pm and switching off non-essential appliances, ensuring a meaningful difference to the power grid during this period.

He reiterated that the drought situation affecting NCD and Central is serious, and all necessary proactive steps must be taken to responsibly manage the water in Sirinumu Dam.

The PNG Power boss said priority is to sustain electricity supply and city water availability for the people of Port Moresby for as long as possible through this extended dry spell.

Meantime, PPL has pledged to continue communicate regular updates to the public on the status of dam levels, generation operations, and any planned load shedding.