Kumu Hydropower Plant – 1,68 MW Clean Energy for Lethem
Gugler Water Turbines GmbH is thrilled to announce the successful commissioning of the 1,68 MW Kumu Hydropower Plant in early June 2025. This achievement was formally marked by Prime Minister Mark Phillips and GEA CEO Dr. Mahender Sharma on July 11, 2025.
Following the restoration of the 0,79 MW Moco Moco plant in December 2024, these back-to-back turnkey projects now provide over 2 MW of precision-engineered renewable power, expertly tailored to Region Nine’s demanding high-head, low-flow conditions. These projects were delivered under Vidullanka PLC’s EPC contract with the Guyana Energy Agency.
Kumu showcases our horizontal Pelton technology, which is crafted for peak efficiency and reliability, and it reinforces Gugler’s reputation for overcoming logistical and environmental challenges in remote hydro installations. Our role as a trusted partner in Guyana’s transition to a stable, clean-energy future is being cemented together with Moco Moco and Kumu projects.
Technical Highlights
Flow rate: 0,36 m³/s
Net head: 523 m
Installed capacity: 1,68 MW
At the heart of the Kumu plant is our horizontal Pelton turbine, which is paired with a directly coupled generator and a precision-balanced flywheel. This setup converts a 523 m net head and 0,36 m³/s flow into 1,68 MW of clean power. GUGLER’s scope of supply included the Pelton turbine and nozzle assembly, generator, flywheel, hydraulic power unit and inlet valve, along with comprehensive control and protection equipment, switchgear, SCADA and auxiliary supply systems. After the factory acceptance testing and on‑site commissioning, performance tests confirmed the installation exceeded its guaranteed efficiency.
Turbine & Capacity: 1,68 MW horizontal Pelton runner directly mounted on the generator shaft
Hydraulics: 523 m net head | 0,36 m³/s design flow
Output & Efficiency: ~9 700 MWh/year at > 90 % efficiency
Delivery: Completed ahead of schedule and within budget
With Kumu (1,68 MW), Moco Moco (0,79 MW), and a 1 MW solar farm, Region Nine’s clean‑energy portfolio reaches 3,47 MW – advancing Guyana’s pillars of energy, food, and climate security. Prime Minister Phillips praised this diversified mix of hydropower, solar, and gas‑to‑power as key to lowering costs and expanding access nationwide.
“This project is not just about electricity,” said Prime Minister Phillips.
“It’s about building a platform for progress—supporting businesses, creating jobs, strengthening public services, and improving quality of life.”
A recent 24‑hour trial saw Kumu and Moco Moco meet Lethem’s entire demand with hydropower alone. Demonstrating both technical resilience and profound community impact.
Combined Impact & Community Benefits
Total Capacity: 2,47 MW (Moco Moco + Kumu) generating ~14 200 MWh/year
Diesel Displacement: Up to 50 % reduction in generation costs
Emissions Avoided: ~8 000 tCO₂ annually like ≈ 1 740 cars off the road for a year.
Local Benefits: 20 jobs created; stable power for schools, clinics, and agro‑processing; extended study hours via Starlink internet
Prime Minister Phillips encouraged women‑ and youth‑led entrepreneurs to harness the surplus capacity, noting plans to extend a dedicated distribution network to Kumu Village.
GUGLER Water Turbines GmbH congratulates all partners and stakeholders – Vidullanka PLC, the Guyana Energy Agency, Brodotehna d.o.o. and everyone involved – for delivering a truly transformative project in one of Guyana’s fastest‑growing regions.
(Juli 2025)
About GUGLER Water Turbines GmbH:
GUGLER Water Turbines GmbH is a leading supplier of – state of the art – turbine technology, supplying all types of Francis, Kaplan and Pelton turbines up to 40 MW per unit and related electro-mechanical equipment for small and medium sized hydro power plants (water to wire).
GUGLER Water Turbines GmbH supplies also special turbines, such as micro turbines, container turbines, siphon turbines, gates turbines, turbines for drinking water, waste water and salt water systems on a global basis.
