Photos & Video: New BELCO Equipment Moved

May 16, 2019

A rather unusual sight was seen on the island’s roads this evening [May 16] as a vehicle moved the new BELCO engine, slowly moving along as it transported the large equipment.

BELCO had previously advised of traffic delays as they prepares to receive new generators for its North Power Station [NPS], with the company saying the delays that will be necessary for the engines’ transportation.

“The NPS is part of the Company’s capital plan with the new power station comprising four 14 Mega Watt [MW] dual-fuel engines that can run on traditional fuel or natural gas and will provide 56 MW of power. Construction on the new plant began in October, 2018 and is expected to be completed later this year with commissioning early in 2020,” BELCO previously said.

“Other aspects of the capital plan include the 10 MW Battery Energy Storage System [BESS] that was successfully brought online in April, as well as comprehensive upgrades to the transmission and distribution system across the island that are ongoing.”

BELCO President Dennis Pimentel said: “These new engines represent our commitment to building a foundation for the future and will ensure we can continue to serve the people of Bermuda with safe, reliable and cost-effective electricity for many years to come.

“The engines that they will replace are between 40 and 50 years old and are becoming increasingly costly to maintain. The ultimate goal is to bring down prices for our customers and these new engines will assist in achieving that goal.”

In providing more information, BELCO said, “Each engine weighs 280 Tonnes, standing 11m long, 5m wide and 6.5m tall. Each alternator weighs 66 Tonnes, standing 5m long, 4.4m wide and tall.

“The engines and alternators are so heavy and large that a special temporarily imported vehicle will be used to convey the items from Dock #1 to the NPS construction site. It is 3m wide, 27m long with 112 wheels and it will move at walking speed.

“It is expected to take 2-2.5 hours to get from Dock #1 to the NPS. The engines and alternators will be transported to the NPS during the evenings between May 13th and May 27th.

“The management and staff of BELCO appreciate the public’s understanding as we work to build an energy foundation that will be safe, efficient and cost-effective for our customers. More information on road closures can be found on the BELCO website at www.belco.bm.”