THE Local Government and Regional Development Ministry has donated a quantity of solar panels to outlying schools and health posts in various riverine communities in Region 3, Essequibo Islands/West Demerara, as part of its work programme for 2012. The distribution was done by its Permanent Secretary Collin Croal. Region 3 Chairman Julius Faerber and other members of the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) were also present.

The solar-powered systems included a 135-watt panel, a 450-ampere battery, and an inverter and other fittings, Croal noted. The complete systems cost $264,000 each.

Systems were given to the Fort Island and Hogg Island Primary Schools, while the Health Centre of the community of Aliki received a system and the Caria Caria Health Centre received a battery and an inverter valued at $164,000.     

While presenting the systems in all the areas, Croal stressed the importance of the panels to the community, and urged that great care be taken in the usage and security of the solar systems.

One of the systems was meant to be given to the Saxacalli Primary School, but when Croal and the other representatives visited the school, it was discovered that the school already has a system, which is not functioning as a result of no one being able to connect it. This was according to the Headmistress of the school.

However, the technician of the community, when questioned, indicated that the headmistress made multiple excuses every time an attempt was made to set up the system, and this was confirmed by other persons who were present at the time.

Croal also conveyed greetings from President Donald Ramotar to the people in the communities, assuring them that the Guyanese leader has plans to visit them very soon.     

According to Croal, many regions have benefited from these systems, given by the Government of Guyana.

He informed that, earlier this year, the Wakapao Village Council in Region 2, Pomeroon/Supenaam, received 300 solar home systems; while in September, the Amerindian villages of Wiruni, Kimbia and Hururu in Region 10 also received solar panels, which are a part of government’s efforts to bring relief and support to the communities that do not enjoy electricity.

Additionally, 1729 solar panel systems were distributed to households and public institutions in Amerindian communities in 2011 through the Hinterland Electrification Programme, which has aided the expansion of electricity supply.

This programme is the brainchild of the current administration, and targets Amerindians living too distant from the electricity grid to receive power.