Major disaster averted at power plant

A major disaster was averted this morning when a team from the BVI Electricity Corporation (BVIEC) swiftly put out a blaze at the power plant in Pockwood Pond, Tortola.

The government has confirmed the incident that it said resulted from a burnt switchgear. It added that a full report will be forthcoming.

“The public is advised that a fire at the Pockwood Pond Power Station caused by a burnt switchgear has been extinguished by the prompt action by a team from the BVI Electricity Corporation.”

“The BVI Fire and Rescue Service provided immediate back up to contain the fire. Their fast action taken averted a major disaster and they are to be commended,” said the Government Information Service.

Minister responsible for energy Mark Vanterpool, who reported on site at 7am, said the incident will not in any major way affect electricity recovery efforts following Hurricane Irma.

“This was a small fire and it was extinguished before it could spread to any other area of the plant,” he said. “If it was not contained, this could have been a major disaster.”