Commissioning and testing of the Ukudu Combined Cycle Power Plant has resumed after contractors completed urgent repairs to a steam turbine rotor, the Guam Power Authority announced Thursday. The 198-megawatt plant, built and operated by independent power producer Guam Ukudu Power, is considered a cornerstone of the island’s energy modernization plan.
The damaged rotor was repaired with the manufacturer’s support, reinstalled ahead of schedule, and system testing officially restarted on Aug. 18, officials said. GPA noted that contractor Doosan worked closely with Guam Ukudu Power to expedite the process, underscoring the importance of bringing the facility online to strengthen energy reliability for the island.
Testing, however, has not been without setbacks. On Aug. 20 at about 6:11 p.m., Ukudu’s turbines tripped offline while providing more than 100 megawatts to the grid, triggering GPA’s under-frequency load shedding system. Several feeders were temporarily taken offline to prevent a full blackout, with power fully restored to all customers by 6:41 p.m. GPA emphasized that such brief outages may continue as part of the commissioning process.
“GUP is working diligently to meet the commissioning timeline, and we are encouraged by the progress made to date,” GPA General Manager John M. Benavente said. “Once completed, the Ukudu Power Plant will provide more cost-effective energy for Guam’s homes and businesses.” The facility is part of GPA’s 25-year build, operate and transfer agreement aimed at reducing reliance on imported fuel and delivering long-term cost savings for residents and businesses.