—Prime Minister says as GEA hosts first Electric Vehicle Show and Tell exhibition

By Feona Morrison
PRIME Minister, Brigadier (retired) Mark Phillips, has boldly declared that Guyana wants to lead the world in energy and climate security.

As he addressed the Guyana Energy Agency’s (GEA) maiden EV [Electric Vehicle] Show and Tell exhibition on Saturday at Amazonia Mall, Providence, East Bank Demerara (EBD) he emphasised the importance of environmental stewardship and sustainable development in the face of global issues. He asserted that although fossil fuels will be available for another 30 years or so, Guyana needs to keep up with the global shift towards a greater usage of renewable energy sources.

Guyana now has 200 electric vehicles (EVs) with six charging stations, and the Prime Minister anticipates that number would rise to over 1,000 by 2025.
Furthermore, there are currently 50 persons trained to service these vehicles.

In an attempt to support national green energy initiatives, the Government of Guyana has made all imports of electric vehicles tax-free and duty free. There is also a 50 per cent annual write-down allowance for businesses investing in environmentally friendly vehicles.

These measures are consistent with the government’s pledge to advance growth along a low-carbon route, the Prime Minister noted.

“Government is here to continue facilitating the move towards greater use of renewable energy with the use of electric vehicles in Guyana. It is my hope that by the end of 2025, we will pass 1,000 vehicles and I would like to contribute by purchasing an electric vehicle,” said Phillips, who has oversight over the country’s energy sector.

The increased use of electric vehicles will, in the opinion of Phillips, also help Guyana to gain more recognition as a global leader in climate and energy security.

“We want to be seen as the leader in energy security. And embracing renewable energy will not only see us as a leader in energy security, but [we] will also be seen as a leader in climate security…”

PM Phillips used the fact that there are more than 5,000 electric automobiles in the Dominican Republic to support his argument that these vehicles are getting more and more popular.
He added that Uganda has a comparable situation with regard to the adoption of electric vehicles for both private and public transportation.

Electric mobility is present in Guyana, according to Dr Mahender Sharma, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of GEA.

Sharma, who has been driving an electric vehicle since 2020, mentioned that owning one has numerous advantages and is a wise investment.

Excited attendees eager to learn about and experience the future of automotive innovation filled the Amazonia Mall. Massay Motors showcased sleek electric vehicles that illustrated the advantages of moving away from conventional fossil fuel-powered modes of mobility.

During the event, a diverse range of electric vehicles, including those manufactured by MG Motor UK Limited, was showcased by Massy Motors.

Meletia Hossanah, the company’s Marketing and Customer Service Manager, stated that these vehicles offer substantial financial and environmental benefits in addition to requiring less upkeep and operation than petrol-powered vehicles.

She said the vehicles come with home charging kits, enabling persons to conveniently charge their vehicles overnight at a fraction of the cost of traditional fueling. According to her, the company offers after sales support for all models.

Individuals from diverse backgrounds are embracing electric transportation and advocating for its benefits. Chrystal Persaud is one such individual who said, “Electric vehicles are good for the environment as well as your pocket.”

According to Persaud, she contributes to the reduction of carbon emissions by driving an electric vehicle. She shared that her car is comfortable and has decent speed.

Even though battery depletion has limited her ability to travel long distances, Shanette Dey revealed that she still adores her car. “I would marry my car if it were a man,” she declared.

According to Samuel Chandool, he is pleased with his car. He explained that many people’s misconceptions regarding electric vehicles stem from their worries about the battery.

Public charging stations for electric vehicles are available outside of the GEA office on Quamina Street, Georgetown; Giftland Mall, Pattensen, Greater Georgetown; Little Rock Suites in New Amsterdam, Berbice; Big Kiss Parking Lot in Parika, East Bank Essequibo (EBE); Amazonia Mall, Providence, EBD; and the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) at Timehri, EBD.

These public charging stations are currently under a three-months trial and testing phase supervised by GEA’s engineers. Owners of electric vehicles can download the “Flash Charge” app, register, and charge their vehicles at these stations during this period for free.

After the three months is up, owners will have to pay $80 per kilowatt-hour, which according to the Prime Minister, is very affordable, compared to the rates in other Caribbean countries.