A blackout that affected several sections in Demerara and Berbice for well over an hour on Monday, May 18, 2026, was caused by an excavator coming into contact with the Guyana Power and Light Incorporated (GPL Inc.)’s Transmission Line 1 on the East Bank of Demerara.
According to the company, the 69,000-volt line, which links the Garden of Eden and Grove Substations, experienced a system disturbance at around 10:17hrs following the machinery hitting the network. The disturbance subsequently led to an estimated 37 megawatts of electricity shortfall.
The excavator involved is reportedly owned by S. Joseph Transportation & Machinery Rentals and was being operated by Mr. Garfield Hinds at the time of the incident, the company said in a statement.
GPL says it has since commenced a formal investigation into the disturbance and the circumstances surrounding the incident. Additionally, it noted that the contractor responsible will be pursued for compensation to recover the costs associated with damages caused to GPL’s transmission infrastructure.
