The public supply of electricity in Anguilla is relatively new. Before 1975, the level of electrification on the island was limited to The Valley area. The Valley network consisted of a small medium voltage system which supplied businesses and residents within a mere 500 metre radius of the Valley Power Station. Because of the lack of consumers, electricity sales at that time were very low.

In 1975, the high voltage network was introduced, with the intention of electrifying the entire island. By 1989, electricity was made available to almost all residences and businesses. Since 1986, the electricity consumption has increased at a rapid rate. The high growth rate can be attributed to the increased acceptance and dependence on this service by new consumers, as well as the growth of the consumer base through new connections, and lastly, the growth of the tourist industry bolstering electricity consumption by hotels, restaurants, and construction.

Anglec’s Generation Department consists of an operations staff responsible for ensuring that the demand for electricity is met and tracking the performance of the generating units. A maintenance staff is responsible for keeping the generating units in top operating condition. It is through the combined efforts of these groups that Anglec is able to provide Anguilla with the generating capacity it needs to grow. Currently, there are 11 units in operation, with the capacity to generate 23 megawatts of electricity.

In 2007, Anglec placed an order for an additional generating set capable of producing 5.4 megawatts of electricity, based on expected load growth. The unit arrived in Anguilla on 1st February 2009 and installation is expected to be completed by June. The addition of this generating set will increase Anglec’s capacity to more than 28 megawatts.

While 28 megawatts may seem like a large capacity compared to current levels of peak demand, it is important to remember that not all units are available at all times. Routine maintenance and major overhauls, as well as unexpected mechanical equipment failure, can cause reductions in available generating capacity.

At the end of 2008, units generated were 89,501,193 K.W.H compared to 88,998,923 K.W.H in 2007.

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