Consistent with the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) 2030 vision, the government has persistently launched numerous initiatives to fortify hinterland communities with cost-effective, dependable, and sustainable energy solutions.
During his address to Amerindian Leaders at the recently culminated National Toshaos Council (NTC) Conference 2023, Dr Mahender Sharma, the Chief Executive Officer of the Guyana Energy Agency, elaborated on how multifarious regions are reaping the rewards of off-grid systems, solar farm establishments, and the integration of mini-grids.
A comprehensive report presented by the Department of Public Information (DPI) cited Dr Sharma remarking on the substantial investment funneled into Region Nine, wherein a robust $3.3 billion has been allocated over the preceding three years, culminating in an impressive 3.4 megawatts of installations.
In parallel, a series of projects are in progress within the region, notably including the ambitious one-megawatt solar farm and the forthcoming Kumu and Moco Moco Hydropower Projects, anticipated to reach completion by the closure of 2024.
Yet, the influence of steadfast energy distribution perpetuates its expansion, with a plethora of regions profiting from substantial investments in solar photovoltaic (PV) systems. “In Region One alone over the last three years there has been 246 kilowatts of solar PV installed, 901-unit kilowatt hours of battery storage, and a total of 21 installations costing some 269 million Guyana dollars,” expounded Dr Sharma.
Investments in Regions Two and Three have been similarly advantageous, with expenditures of $306 million and $11.7 million respectively, resulting in the inauguration of several reliable energy systems.
Furthermore, Regions Six and Seven have witnessed the installation of diverse systems, buoying their residents with vital PV systems. In particular, Dr Sharma accentuated that the operational grids in Paruima and Waramadong are slated for commissioning imminently.
Region Eight has not only benefited from the commissioning of a potent 845 kilowatts via five systems but also anticipates the Mahdia solar farm’s inception, projected for March 2024.
In a parallel vein, Region 10 communities have also gained from sustainable energy infrastructure, amounting to $46 million.
On a grander scale, a plethora of monumental initiatives, like the Wales Gas to Energy Project, loom on the horizon, poised to transform Guyana’s energy landscape. Such ventures stand alongside community-centered projects that aim to seamlessly bridge the energy divide.
In harmony with the LCDS 2030, provisions have been made to acquire and disperse 30,000 solar home PV systems in hinterland localities. Dr Sharma revealed the commendable progress in this regard, stating, “Distribution has commenced, some 22,000 of 30,000 units have already been shipped. We have received 9,360 of these and we have already started distribution.”
