The construction of Mantung power plant in Belitung delayed

The construction of the Mantung coal-fired power plant that will be built near the Balinyu port in Bangka by a consortium of PT Humpuss Intermeda Transportasi, PT Kutiolang Pakis Mas, PT Timah Industri and PT Findomuda Desaincipta, has been delayed.

Kompas reported on Monday that there were no signs of construction activities in the area that had been appropriated for the new power plant although a large sign put up in the site clearly indicated that the construction would be begun in March, this year.

No comments were available from the consortium but the head of the planning division of the local office of state owned electricity company PLN in the Bangka-Belitung province, Joni Palma said that the construction of the new power plant might be still in the process of preparation.

"But we are optimistic that the new plant will be able to begin commercial operation in 2007 despite the delay," he said.

The Mantung power plant which will has a capacity of 2 x 12 MW will be built to meet the sharp of the growing fuel demand in the province. (*)