Santo Domingo.- A specialist in dam design and construction today said the Jigüey-Aguacate hydroelectric complex (south) needs to be rebuilt so it can produce more energy at a lower cost.

Leando Guzmán said the cost to repair both dams is “insignificant given the benefits which will be derived,” and for that work suggested using part of the funds created to confront the prolonged economic crisis, as an economist recently suggested.

He affirmed that the energy produced by the hydroelectric system substantially reduces the oil bill.

In a statement the expert noted that Tropical Storm Noel seriously damaged the complex in October, 2007, including Jigüey’s turbine vents, which lowered its 100 megawatt capacity by 50 percent.  

As to Aguacate, Guzmán said it was taken off line with serious damages to the machinery, reducing its 50 megawatt output to zero. “The energy crisis which is projected for many years deserves a look at fast solutions, because every day the energy demand increases.”

When fully operational the Jiguey-Aguacate complex’s 150 megawatt output is the country’s highest among hydroelectric dams, followed by Tavera’s (central) 95MW.