RESIDENTS of Mahdia can expect relief from frequent blackouts by the end of September, according to a recent government announcement. Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, currently performing the duties of President, has promised the delivery of a new generator to address the ongoing power shortages in the area.
The Prime Minister stated that he received information about the power outages from the Mahdia Power and Light Company Incorporated last evening and took immediate action to source a new generator.
“I want to assure you that we’re looking for a generator now to send into Mahdia before the end of this month, a new generator,” Phillips said. “Once I find a new generator, it might be this weekend or next week, it will be on its way to Mahdia to deal with this power situation once and for all. That’s my promise to you.”

This emergency measure comes in addition to the ongoing $362 million solar farm project in Mahdia. The contract for this project was signed in October 2022 between the Guyana Energy Agency (GEA) and the Standby Power Engineering Company (SPECOM). Once completed, the solar farm will provide 0.69 megawatts (MW) of electricity to the existing mini-grid, benefiting approximately 3,000 people.
Dr. Mahender Sharma, Head of the Guyana Energy Agency, highlighted that the solar farm would offset at least 30% of the annual electricity demand for the Mahdia mini-grid. It will also be capable of supplying at least two hours of electricity daily to the community without relying on diesel generators.

The government has also distributed solar photovoltaic (PV) home systems to residents of Mahdia and surrounding communities in Region Eight as part of its Solar Home Systems Project. This initiative aims to provide 150-watt solar systems to 30,000 households in hinterland and riverine communities across Guyana.
Prime Minister Phillips emphasised the government’s commitment to the development of Mahdia and other hinterland areas. “When they come and tell you better must come, tell them, better is already here because you have a government that is committed to your development,” he stated.
As Mahdia awaits the arrival of the new generator, residents can look forward to more reliable power supply in the near future, marking a significant step towards improved infrastructure and quality of life in the region.