Guernsey Power Station (GPS) is pleased to announce the major milestone of completing steam blows on the first of three units at the facility. As been communicated previously, steam blows produce significantly higher sound levels than the remaining commissioning activities and normal operation. This first unit is now expected to operate consistent with the stringent sound requirements set by the Ohio Power Siting Board (OPSB) for the facility.
Our December 15, 2022, correspondence indicated that commissioning and testing of the facility was reasonably anticipated to be complete for all units by the end of the year. However, because of several factors including certain equipment issues uncovered during commissioning and issues related to the recent cold weather including matters related to the natural gas systems in the region, steam blows of the remaining two units will be extended into January.
Neighbors in our community may have heard certain excessive noise events in December during the commissioning process. An excessive noise event is short, generally lasting up to one minute, and is the result of an automatic function of relief valves opening and releasing steam. Although unintended, this is required to protect the equipment. GPS informs the OPSB the same day when such an event occurs.
We appreciate the patience and support of our neighbors and community and will continue to post related information on our website: www.guernseypowerstation.com