2026 ENERGY PRODUCTION AWARD 

Guam has historically depended heavily on imported petroleum to meet its energy needs, leaving the island vulnerable to disruptions and an aging power generation system. A 2015 explosion and fire at the Cabras Island power plant eliminated 79 MW of baseload generation capacity and resulted in rolling blackouts. Typhoon Mawar in 2023 placed additional strain on Guam’s energy infrastructure, further highlighting the need for a more reliable, resilient, and environmentally sustainable power system. 

The 198-megawatt Ukudu Power Plant in Dededo represents a major step toward modernizing Guam’s energy infrastructure. Designed to improve reliability while supporting the Guam Power Authority’s (GPA) long-term clean energy goals, the combined-cycle facility provides efficient, flexible generation to replace aging and less reliable power sources. 

The technologically advanced plant can operate on either ultra-low sulfur diesel fuel or liquefied natural gas (LNG), giving GPA greater flexibility to respond to changing energy demands and environmental requirements. The facility includes three Siemens SGT-800 combustion turbines, a 70 MW steam turbine, emergency diesel generators, a cooling tower, and other supporting equipment. A battery energy storage system further strengthens grid stability and improves overall reliability. 

The Ukudu plant also delivers significant environmental benefits. The ability to use cleaner-burning LNG will reduce sulfur dioxide and other emissions while decreasing Guam’s dependence on imported fuel oil by an estimated 879,000 barrels annually. The facility is also designed to complement increasing levels of renewable energy on the island. 

As a key component of GPA’s Clean Energy Master Plan, Ukudu supports Guam’s goals of achieving 50% renewable energy by 2030 and 100% by 2045. Beyond strengthening the island’s power system, the project supports economic development and local jobs while helping build a cleaner, more resilient energy future for Guam.

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