Dominican utility plods ahead with coal-fired plants, despite pollution

Santo Domingo.- The head of State-owned Electric Utility (CDEEE) on Monday announced that the Dominican government is going ahead with its plan to build two coal-fired power plants, despite the rebuke such facility will likely face on pollution concerns.

Ruben Jimenez said the government’s interest isn’t to compete with the private sector, but to lower the cost of energy instead.

The official said the credentials of the companies interested in making tender offers to build two plants of 300 megawatts each in Hatillo, San Cristobal (south), will be disclosed June 24.

Jimenez added that the plants will be owned by the State but operated by the private sector, after a call for tenders. "The State is only interested in the installation of the plants to lower the cost of electricity, provide better service and much cheaper price for the population."