‘Black start’ system aims to provide backup power

NIUPOWER Ltd will launch its “black start” system this month once its test results are positive, says chief executive officer Michael Uiari.
It will give the company capacity to energise the Port Moresby power grid within 15 to 30 minutes in the event of a total system shutdown.
Uiari said NiuPower’s proposal for the new system had been approved by the PNG Power Ltd.
“PNG Power approved the black start proposal by NiuPower,” Uiari said.
“NiuPower is waiting for the control systems engineer on Lihir to be released by O&M Partner, Wartsila, to attend to automation of the black start process in Port Moresby.
“Once automation is complete, NiuPower’s power station will be able to get the POM Grid re-energised in a maximum of 15 to 30 minutes in the event of a total system shutdown.
“Once the automation is programmed, we will run tests on Oct 9 or 12.
“Assuming the test results satisfactorily, we will go live immediately thereafter.”
Uiari said the “black start” was the process of restoring a power station or part of an electric grid to operate without relying on the external electric power transmission network to recover from a total or partial shutdown.
He said as Port Moresby-focused independent power producer (IPP), NiuPower had always been willing to assist PNG Power Ltd if required.