The power hours were implemented starting Tuesday after an engine at the Aimeliik power plant broke down.
Kione Isechal, PPUC Chairman of the Board said that the unit was expected to be back on line Wednesday but the crew has not successfully fixed the engine.The repair started on Sunday as a result, PPUC had to cut power in some areas.Isechal said because of the engine breakdown “the capacity of the load cannot meet the demand.”PPUC , because of the engine break down cannot carry the entire power load for Koror State and Babeldaob area.He said the engine are about 25 years old which needed replacement, but lack of funds prevent PPUC from securing a new one.Isechal said there are four units located at the Aimeliik plant, one broke and another unit is being rehabilitated.In 2006, PPUC had to implement power rationing for a broken down unit at the Malakal power plant.A loan of $7 million has been secured to purchase new generators.PPUC said that it has asked Palasia, Surangel and Sons, WCTC, Airai View Hotel and Papago Hotel to use their generators as a result of the power hours.
