The construction of a new power plant in Uummannaq has already started. It is expected to cost a three-digit million sum. The power plant, which caught fire on Monday, cannot be used again, the company’s director says.
The power plant in Uummannaq caught fire around noon on Monday. The fire has destroyed it so much that it cannot be used again, says director of Nukissiorfiit, Johan Danielsen, to Sermitsiaq.
– The peak load power plant burned completely. The burned down installations are extensive. According to the information we have received, everything at the power plant in question can no longer be used, says Johan Danielsen.
He also states that it is now being investigated how the fire may have started.
– At present, it cannot be said what caused the fire. When the report is finished and we have received it, we hope to publish it, says the director.
Another that cannot be used
The primary power plant, the base load power plant, is located near the burned-down power plant. But it cannot be fully used either.
– Fortunately, we also have a facility next door. But it has problems and we are now waiting for spare parts. When we have received them, we will use them as a power supply, says Johan Danielsen.
Since all power plants cannot be used, generators that have come from other cities are now supplying power to Uummannaq.
– The generators in containers that have been sent to Uummannaq from Ilulissat and Aasiaat will be used for the time being, says Johan Danielsen.
The plan is that they will no longer be used when the primary power plant, the base load power plant, can supply power again, and that they will then only function as a reserve in the city.
A new one is already under construction
Even before the fire at the power plant in Uummannaq, the company had decided that a new power plant should be established. The building has now already begun to be erected by KJ Greenland A/S.
According to the plans, the new power plant must be commissioned in two years.
– The construction of the power plant in Uummannaq already began last year. We expect it to be put into use during 2028.
– But there are always uncertainties. There may be delays, says Johan Danielsen.
The company will be responsible for the construction of the power plant, including the purchase of all materials. The director expects that the construction and establishment will cost more than DKK 100 million.
Loss-making
According to Nukissiorfiit’s annual report for 2024, the company had a deficit of DKK 60.2 million that year.
But Nukissiorfiit’s problems are not just about deficits. The company has previously stated that in 2022, DKK 1.8 billion was missing for the renovation of their facilities.
