BAYJI POWER PLANT BREATHES LIFE INTO IRAQ

CENTCOM ^ | October 16, 2004

[Ragtime Cowgirl]

	NEWS RELEASE HEADQUARTERS UNITED STATES CENTRAL COMMAND 7115 South Boundary Boulevard MacDill AFB, Fla. 33621-5101 Phone: (813) 827-5894; FAX: (813) 827-2211; DSN 651-5894

October 16, 2004
Release Number: 04-10-43

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


BAYJI POWER PLANT BREATHES LIFE INTO IRAQ

BAYJI, Iraq -- As part of its efforts to bolster security and the economy in Northern Iraq, the 1st Infantry Division partnered with civilian companies and the Army Corp of Engineers to repair the Bayji Power Plant complex.

The facility, which is comprised of three power plants, once generated 1,300 megawatts of power. But after Operation Desert Storm in 1991, Iraqi officials were unable to get parts to maintain the plants because of sanctions levied against the country.

The three plants were generating a little less than 400 megawatts of power prior the start of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Since then, Multi-National Forces have worked diligently to repair the complex, which was one of the major power sources in the nation.

In August, it was generating about 800 megawatts of power

The plant employs 2,000 local civilians, 1,200 of which are permanent. As of August, the 1st Infantry Division had spent more than $1 million on parts for the plant.

Aside from repairs to the 500-acre complex, security was a major issue. Its fence had gaping holes that serve as a gateway for looters who frequently stole equipment and supplies from the power plant.

To remedy that problem, the 1st Infantry Division spent $450,000 to build a 12-foot wall around the entire complex. That project created more than 700 jobs for locals, as six different contractors worked on the wall simultaneously.

The division also implemented an identification card system for all employees and there are now plans to build guard towers and fire equipment.

The 1st Infantry Division also built a health center for workers on the complex, and it plans to refurbish the local sewage system. Both projects will cost a combined $360,000.

The plant is expected to be fully operational by the end of 2005.

[Ragtime Cowgirl]

 Ping!

 

 

^*Please Freepmail if you want on or off the 'coalition of the willing' (high volume) ping list.

[beebuster2000]

good post. thanks!!

[Bahbah]

"That project created more than 700 jobs for locals, as six different contractors worked on the wall simultaneously.

Nope, can't be true. John Kerry says we're not putting any jobs or money in the hands of regular Iraqis.

[Ernest_at_the_Beach]

As soon as they finish there we need them in California to build power plants.

[isthisnickcool]

That's a lot of work and a lot of people doing it for not a lot of $$$.

[Alamo-Girl]

Bump!

[whizzer]

BUMP!!

[McGavin999]

When they talk about how little US money has been spent, most Americans are thinking of American wages. Look at what has been produced with just $1 million. The number of families that can be fed and provided for is unbelievable, and the increase in pride for the breadwinner of the family is priceless.

[blackie]

Working together ~ getting things done ~ Bump!

[SuziQ]

More great news! Folks are definitely going to start connecting America with help and friendship!