Guernsey Electricity generator undergoes final tests

The final tests are being carried out on Guernsey Electricity's new £14m generator before it starts producing energy for the island.

Bob Beebe, operations director, said: "We are entering a very critical stage... to ensure everything is ready to enter into commercial service."

The 360-tonne oil-fired generator is due to be run at full capacity for 30 days to test its reliability.

Mr Beebe said this would start in the next few days.

Tom Woodford, project manager, said: "Once in service, the engine will undergo a number of further tests, with and without electricity load, to check all systems are in working order."

The generator, which was the largest single largest piece of machinery ever brought ashore in the Bailiwick, was delivered in September and is due to come online in March.