– Private sector embracing renewable energy
AS part of its commitment to achieving low carbon development goals, the Government of Guyana has been actively promoting renewable energy investments. This initiative has seen an increasing number of companies transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources.

Among the private sector leaders in this shift is ActionINVEST Caribbean Incorporated (ACI), which has significantly enhanced its sustainability practices.
ACI has retrofitted its headquarters with a solar photovoltaic (PV) system and has begun using electric vehicles (EVs) for its operations.

According to Dr. Vishnu Doerga, Founder and Executive Chairman of ACI/ActionCOACH Guyana, the motivation behind these changes was to reduce energy consumption, save on electricity costs, and foster an environmentally conscious culture among staff.
The company installed a 10-kilowatt grid-connected solar PV system in 2019 at a cost of GY$4.4 million. A load analysis conducted by engineers from the Guyana Energy Agency (GEA) ensured the system was optimally sized.

Since installation, ACI has achieved payback on its solar investment in under three years through savings on electricity bills. The solar energy system powers ACI’s operations and charges its EV, bringing the company close to net-zero energy consumption.
Dr. Doerga highlighted that ACI uses about 75 per cent of its energy for cooling with high-efficiency inverter air conditioning units, 10-15 per cent for lighting, and the remainder for various office appliances. The grid-connected system allows ACI to track energy usage and supply, ensuring efficient energy management.

ACI’s commitment to renewable energy extended to its transportation. Following a renewable energy forum with GEA’s Head, Dr. Mahender Sharma, Dr. Doerga decided to purchase an MG4 electric vehicle. The EV, which has a 51-kilowatt-hour battery and a 350-kilometer range, replaced a gasoline-powered vehicle that previously cost nearly GY$1 million annually to operate.

The new EV, costing GY$6 million, is expected to deliver a return on investment within six years by eliminating fuel and maintenance costs.
“We are one of the few companies in Guyana to invest in both a solar PV system and an electric vehicle. Our team is proud to be pioneers in this area, contributing to carbon emissions reduction,” Dr. Doerga stated.

He also praised the Government of Guyana for facilitating a seamless transition to renewable energy through supportive policies.
These policies include customs duty and VAT exemptions for renewable energy technology, a two-year tax holiday for solar and wind energy investments, and a grid-connected solar PV net-billing system that allows companies like ACI to save on energy costs. The government has also introduced incentives for electric vehicles, including zero rates of duty and taxes and a 50 per cent annual write-down allowance.

Dr. Doerga encouraged other businesses to consider transitioning to renewable energy, emphasising the importance of assessing energy needs and financing options. ACI plans to expand its solar energy capacity and EV fleet. Dr. Doerga also stressed the importance of national conversations about renewable energy, commending the Guyana Energy Agency for its role in educating businesses about sustainable energy practices.

“The provision of information by the Guyana Energy Agency is instrumental in helping private sector businesses learn more about sustainable energy. This approach is key to sensitizing people about the country’s ongoing renewable energy development and energy sector transformation,” Dr. Doerga concluded.

Guyana’s proactive approach in promoting renewable energy is proving vital in the country’s efforts to build a low-carbon economy and ensure reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy access for all its citizens.