Dhiffushi: An important milestone in STELCO's history

STELCO has stated that the construction of a powerhouse in K. Dhiffushi has great importance due to many reasons. The foundation of the site was laid in June last year, with construction and development lasting just 8 months. The site is now ready to be opened and it is stated that this was the fastest construction of a powerhouse by STELCO.

"To date, this is the fastest STELCO has completed the construction of a powerhouse, as said by MD Hussain Fahumee. In comparison to the projects that have been done on this island, this is also the fastest to reach completion," says Dhiffushi Office Station Manager Hussain Shafiu.

With the construction of the main building being completed, the process of moving the engines into the buildings have begun.

Residents of Dhiffushi have expressed long-term concerns over the miniscule space that used to be the electricity building. Barely two people could enter the building when they wanted to settle their payments, making for an uncomfortable experience.

Another issue was the size of the control room itself. The area was so small that if an electrician were to accidentally bump backwards into a chair, the engine would grind to a halt. It used to be able to accommodate just two electricians, resulting in working difficulties.

Shafiu has stated that the capacity of the engine in use now is 2,200 kilowatts. With consideration to the new powerplant that has been constructed, he has stated that that capacity will triple.

"The capacity is currently at seven megawatts and is expected to triple. The powerplant has five beds, with each being able to accommodate a 1.6 engine. The relevant panels have also been installed," said Shafiu.

The entire property spans 30,000 sqft and houses an office, kitchen, a mess hall, a coffee corner and prayer room.

They have also constructed an accommodation block housing two rooms for employees that make trips to Dhiffushi from Male'. STELCO has said they did this to address the issues employees raised over them having to paying large sums to rent out rooms when they are sent for work at Dhiffushi. This resulted in money being saved by employees and a win for STELCO as well.

The control room has also seen improvements in size. Two tanks have also been built to increase fuel line fill storage.

This is one of the issues a lot of islands face. Building an electrical unit that would produce quite a bit of noise would be a cause for frustration among residents, with this having been the case at Dhiffushi.

But now, the powerplant that has been recently constructed was placed far from the eyes and ears of residents.

Shafiu has said that work has now begun on moving the old powerplant into the new one. One engine has already been installed and tested, he said.

All that is left is to connect two engines of the power house along with some finishing touches. Shafiu said that STELCO's aim is to have the new powerplant up and running by the end of the month.

STELCO's construction of the Dhiffushi powerplant is an example of excellent work concerning speed and spacious building design and is an incredible success across its 35 power stations.