DAR ES SALAAM, Tanzania, June 5, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Symbion Power has switched on turbines at its 120 MW power plant in Dar es Salaam, it was announced today by Christopher Camponovo, Country Director, Symbion Power.
(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20110605/PH14214 )
The plant has been connected to the TANESCO grid since Friday 3rd June. Symbion has been testing the turbines while supplying power to TANESCO, and the machines are functioning well. The introduction of the Symbion Power Plant to the Tanzanian electricity network will help alleviate the problems experienced in the country caused by severe power shedding.
"This is a start," said Chris Camponovo, Country Director. "In the future we aim to increase the capacity of this particular plant and we are researching other investment opportunities in the generation, transmission and distribution sectors where Symbion has extensive expertise." Mr. Camponovo continued, "The government has made electricity supply a key priority. They also need to make gas supply a priority because currently there is insufficient gas to fully power this plant, or to expand it. The Symbion plant is ISO rated at 112 MW but can only produce a maximum of 75 MW due to the lack of gas."
When asked about the company's negotiations with TANESCO, Mr. Camponovo declined to comment, stating, "we cannot talk about our bid proposal or provide any details about ongoing discussions due to strict government procurement rules. This is entirely normal in such circumstances. I am sure that when and if there is something to announce, TANESCO will do so. Right now, we are simply testing the power plant on load in case it is needed."
Symbion Power is an American company that specializes in developing complex turnkey electric power infrastructure systems, including transmission lines, substations and switchyards
and thermal power plants, in regions of the world where conflict and instability are major impediments to progress. The company is headquartered in Washington, D.C., and has offices in several other countries. www.symbion-power.com
SOURCE Symbion Power
