Performance tests on the Delimara power station extension had to be interrupted yesterday when a motor-pump tripped, Enemalta said last night.

This in turn caused the steam turbine to trip after the system’s automatic protection mechanism kicked in.

“Corrective action has been taken and performance tests have now been resumed under the supervision of Enemalta and the specialist consultants,” the corporation said.

The steam turbine has been at the centre of controversy after it developed a fault and had to be sent abroad for repair. As a result, the takeover of the multimillion euro extension by Enemalta, originally due to take place in October, had been delayed. Pending the outcome of the performance tests being carried out now, Enemalta is expecting to take over the extension soon.

“The extension will be taken over when the corporation, together with the third party independent consultants, are satisfied with the outcome of the performance tests,” Enemalta said yesterday.

This follows endorsement of a report, prepared by extension supplier BWSC, on the cause of the damage. to the steam turbine.