Base-load Utility Power, Cabinda, Angola
The challenge to the customer
Following a period of conflict in the region, the Cabindan
utility network required extensive repairs and power rationing had
become a way of life for the 500,000 population. A reliable power
supply was necessary to support economic development and regional
rehabilitation.
In addition, increased fuel (diesel) costs, coupled with a
readily available supply of natural gas in Cabinda, meant the
government was looking for an alternative source to fuel the power
supply in subsequent years.
Aggreko's solution
Aggreko initially supplied a 15MW / 30kV power package in
Malongo to cope with existing demand of Cabinda. As the population
of Cabinda became accustomed to a reliable power supply, the demand
grew to 25MW. To stabilise the network, the main power package was
increased to 20MW at 30kV which was supplemented by a 5MW power
package at 15kV in the Town Centre.
Rural electrification was also an issue, and when Cabinda Town
had established a reliable electricity source the demand in
outlying areas also increased. To meet this demand, Aggreko
installed eight ‘satellite power stations’ of 2MW power packages in
remote areas, from the rain forests in Northern Cabinda to the
area’s surrounding the regional airport.
The benefits to the customer
Although power at these sites was initially supplied by diesel
generators, Aggreko fulfilled its’ commitment to provide
gas-fuelled generators and replace the majority of the diesel
powered equipment at the main power plant in Malongo significantly
reducing overall operating costs for the customer.