Dominica Electricity Services Ltd. (DOMLEC) has apologized for widespread and, in some cases, prolonged power outages between August 14 and 15, saying several incidents disrupted electricity service across the island.
A company media release stated Acting General Manager Ellise Darwton said the company accepts responsibility for identifying ways to improve its response.
“We understand how difficult it is to be without electricity for several hours, particularly overnight and into the following day. Customers depend on electricity for their homes, businesses, food storage, communication and many other essential activities. We sincerely apologise for the disruption and frustration experienced,” she said.
DOMLEC reported that four major outages occurred within the 24-hour period. Two, at 4:29 AM and 1:09 PM Friday, resulted from the geothermal plant disconnecting from the system. The first was restored by 7:30 AM, while vegetation and bad weather delayed the second. A tree later struck high-tension lines in Fond Canie at 10:30 PM, while East Coast and Laudat lost service around 4 AM Saturday. Most affected areas were restored by 2 PM.
Darwton also said DOMLEC is looking at communications during prolonged outages, including considering more grassroots methods for reaching customers without internet or electronic devices.
“We recognise that customers need timely information, particularly during a prolonged outage. While updates were provided through national radio and social media, we are reviewing how we communicate during major incidents and identifying additional, more grassroots ways of reaching customers who may not have access to electronic devices or internet service when their electricity is off,” she said.
Engineering, Transmission and Distribution Manager Daryl Dalrymple said the disruptions reflect challenges during the electricity sector’s ongoing transition.
“The electricity sector is going through a significant transition, and we are working with the system we currently have while progressing the completion of the geothermal project and associated infrastructure,” he said.
He noted that geothermal development is in Phase One of three, with DOMLEC working to optimise new generation capacity while resolving technical issues.
Dalrymple also praised employees who worked through difficult weather conditions, stressing that safety must remain a priority.
‘DOMLEC thanks its customers for their patience and understanding during the outages and apologises for the disruption experienced. The company remains committed to addressing the challenges identified, completing the ongoing system upgrades and building a stronger and more reliable electricity network that will deliver long-term benefits to Dominica and its people,” concluded the release.
