Sale of 4 power barges pushes through

State-run Power Sector Assets and Liabilities Management Corp. (PSALM) will push through with the bidding of four diesel-fired power barges on May 16, marking the resumption of the government’s privatization activities.

In a statement, PSALM said it was able to finalize all the necessary government requirements to allow it to conduct a bidding for the sale of Power Barges 101, 102, 103 and 104, which can generate 32 megawatts each.

PSALM president and chief executive officer Emmanuel R. Ledesma Jr. noted that the decision to pursue the first privatization activity since 2010 was in line with “PSALM’s mandate in the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (Epira) and with the guidance and support of the PSALM board.”

Ledesma disclosed that the number of prospective bidders that had qualified for the bidding was trimmed down to seven investor groups from 11.

All of these groups were given ample time to prepare and finalize their respective offers.

The qualified bidders submitted their documentary deliverables before the April 18 deadline.

According to Ledesma, the seven eligible bidders have until 12 noon this Wednesday to submit their official offers for the power barges, after which the opening and evaluation of bids will commence.

Commissioned in 1981, power barges 101 and 102 are currently stationed at Bo. Obrero in Iloilo City.

PB Nos. 103 and 104, which began operation in 1985, are moored in Botongon, Estancia, Iloilo, and at the Holcim Compound, Ilang, Davao City, respectively.