32MW HFO Power Plant Project

Managing a power plant project in a challenging environment requires a combination of technical expertise, effective management, and cultural awareness. By proactively addressing challenges and fostering positive relationships with the local community, you can increase the likelihood of a successful and sustainable project

Being involved in a 32MW Heavy Fuel Oil (HFO) fired power plant in Chad is a significant and complex undertaking. Operating in an environment with logistical complexities and local challenges can present unique obstacles.

Here are some reflections that has been helping the team to navigate through the intricacies successfully:

From day one we have made sure that the establishment of strong partnerships and collaborations with local stakeholders, including government authorities, communities, and suppliers will be crucial for the smooth functioning of the power plant project.

On the back of those local relationships and collaborations, a robust logistics and supply chain management plan to ensure the timely delivery of the engines, spare parts, and other critical supplies was activated. As a company we have considered far ahead the challenges such as the almost landlocked nature of the country, its infrastructure limitations, and more than anything the CEMAC customs regulations (there had been a prior project but on a smaller scale in another part of the country). Because of the landlocked nature, all foreign shipments have to come through Douala or Kribi port in Cameroon and transported by road to Chad.

Getting local workforce support has been a herculean task, so training and development programs were instituted to build a semi-skilled local workforce from the adjoining villages. A well-trained workforce can enhance operational efficiency and create positive relationships with the local community.

To address security concerns and implement safety measures to protect the power plant and personnel, we have the good fortune of the project site adjoining the country’s 10,000 BPD refinery. And with the country having a history of understanding and navigating potential security risks in the region, there was a substantial mitigation on any risk of that nature. Nevertheless, a risk management and emergency response plan has been put in place.

For a multi lingua local community comprising of French and Arabic speaking groups, there is need to continually respect and understand the local culture and customs. This we do by communicating at teams meeting and toolbox talks in English/French/Arabic so as to engender cultural brotherhood which will foster better communication and cooperation with the local community.

With all this my posted considerations, the scout watch word is still “Be prepared”: to adapt to changing circumstances and be flexible in finding solutions to challenges that arise in such a complex environment.

And as all ancillary components and equipment make their way to site from Cameroon, the journey to commissioning is coming closer by the day.