Lesotho’s Muela hydro power station is currently operating at two-thirds of its capacity after one of the three units that generate electricity failed to restart following a fault that caused all three machines to shut down on June 16.
The Lesotho Highlands Development Authority (LHDA) said in a statement that it has been working on restoring Unit 1; however, it remains unoperational.
Despite routine maintenance, some of the critical components of the three electricity generating machines, which were put into operation 34 years ago at a cost of M1.4-billion, are approaching the end of their service life and substantial funds have been required to replace or refurbish them.
“It is critical to get the failed unit back in operation as quickly as possible,” says LHDA CEO Tente Tente, indicating that the LHDA is exploring all options, including fast-tracking the procurement of a contractor to refurbish the unit, subject to funding availability.
“The issue of restoring Unit 1 to normal operation is top priority given that continued failure to bring the station into optimal operation has serious implications for the country. Proper maintenance of the station’s equipment in totality is equally important as the consequences of further failures would be dire,” adds Tente.
The hydropower station remains the largest and most critical source of electricity supply in Lesotho, generating 51% of the country’s yearly electricity requirements at a very low cost.
The LHDA will continue to provide updates.