VINLEC celebrates 29 years of service

Tuesday July 1 2014 marked a historic day for this country’s sole electricity provider, St Vincent Electricity Services Limited (VINLEC).{{more}}

That was the occasion of the 29th anniversary since the Government of St Vincent and the Grenadines became sole owners of VINLEC, making the company a state-owned entity.

The history of electricity in St Vincent and the Grenadines dates back to 1931, when the Crown Colony Government began providing electricity to thirty-two (32) customers. VINLEC’s forerunner, the Common wealth Development Corporation (CDC), a British based Company, took over the operations of the electricity business in 1953.

During the early 1970’s the Government of St Vincent and the Grenadines acquired 49 per cent of the company’s shares, while 51 per cent remained with the CDC. It was on July 1, 1985, that VINLEC became a state owned entity, when the Government acquired the remaining 51 per cent shares of the Company.

“St Vincent Electricity Services Limited is a top quality service provider, with a mission to provide service of the best quality and value to its customers, satisfy the interest of shareholder and employees and contribute to a high quality of life for the nation,” a release from the company said.

Over the many years, the company has transformed to a modern utility company, providing electricity to approximately 98 per cent of the population. VINLEC provides quality, safe and reliable electricity service to customers. The company’s also supports national development and seeks continuously to build partnership in the areas of education, sports, health, culture and the arts.

“Currently, the Company provides electricity to 41,734 customers across the multi-island state. VINLEC owns and operates nine Power Plants including the diesel Power Stations located at Cane Hall, Lowmans Bay, Bequia, Union Island, Canouan and Mayreau. The Hydro Plants are located at Cumberland, Richmond and South Rivers. VINLEC employs 317 persons who are spread across the various locations.

“In keeping with its mandate, the Company pledges to continue working to ensure that it provides reliable and quality service to its customers as it moves ahead in future,” the release said.