PNG Biomass is upskilling staff to ensure the biomass power plant and solar farm in the Markham Valley, in Morobe Province, is constructed and operated using the highest safety standards and best available technology.
Power Plant Engineering Coordinator, Joshua Yaru, recently visited the Philippines to conduct a technical feasibility assessment of a similar style biomass power plant and adjacent solar farm.
The aim was to assess the technical, safety and logistical feasibility of the 25-megawatt power plant and 48-megawatt solar farm and take away lessons for the PNG Biomass renewable energy project in the Markham Valley.
Yaru’s visit was focused on reviewing the implementation of safe work procedures in executing tasks in and around the power plant.
The use of categorised work permits was a useful takeaway.
The work permits at the biomass power plant most commonly used to ensure safety at the workplace were the Hot Work Permit, Cold Work Permit, Confined Space Entry Permit and Working at Heights Permit.
(Joshua Yaru viewing biomass power plant pipe rack and boiler room)