PLN developing Anggrek power plant

State utility PT Perusahaan Listrik Negara (PLN) has started the construction of the steam power plant (PLTU) Gorontalo known as PLTU Anggrek, with a generation capacity of 2 x 25 Megawatt (MW).

The beginning of the construction was inaugurated on Friday in a ceremony attended by PLN President Director Nur Pamudji and Gorontalo Governor Rusli Habibie and Deputy Governor Idris Rahim in Anggrek district of Gorontalo Utara regency of Gorontalo province.

PLTU Anggrek is part of the first Fast Track Program of developing 10.000 MW, and is expected to start commercial operation in 2014.

Previously, its development was halted due to poor performance of the contractor and social conflict caused by land problem.

Currently, the installed capacity in Gorontalo is about 45 MW, while its peak load is about 55 MW. The shortage of 10 MW is fulfilled from Sulutgo (North Sulawesi and Gorontalo) interconnected grid.

?When PLTU Anggrek starts operation, Gorontalo will have enough power supply. It will even be able to supply other regions, such as Toli-Toli," said Nur Pamudji.

Governor Rusli Habibie promised that his adminstration will facilitate the development of power plants, including PLTU Anggrek.

?We have a huge potential of economy, but our infrastructure is still poor. That?s why investors are still reluctant to invest here. But with the development of this PLTU Anggrek, we hope investors will be encouraged to come,? he said.

Editing by Benget Besalicto Tnb.