–PM Phillips says tourism, manufacturing industries will have potential to thrive

Story and photos by Indrawattie Natram

IN a major step towards the push to use renewable energy, Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips on Thursday broke ground for a major solar farm project in Region Two, which will see farms being installed at Onderneeming and Charity. These projects will generate a total of 8 MWp of solar power, supported by 12 MWp of battery storage.

At the Onderneeming site, 5 MWp of solar capacity will be installed, backed by 7.5 MWp of battery storage. Charity will see the installation of 3 MWp with 4.5 MWp of battery power.

Both installations are part of the Guyana Utility-Scale Photovoltaic Programme (GUYSOL), a government initiative to diversify the country’s energy mix by incorporating large-scale solar farms. This development marks a crucial advancement in Guyana’s drive for sustainable and resilient energy solutions.

While at the sod turning ceremony which was held at the Onderneeming site, PM Phillips emphasised the long-term economic and social benefits of this transition to renewable energy. He said that there will be potential for the tourism and manufacturing industries to thrive with increased and reliable power availability.

The solar farm project, slated for completion in December 2025, is being executed by SUMEC Complete Equipment and Engineering Company Limited in collaboration with XJ Group Corporation. The initiative is financed through the Guyana/Norway partnership, with a total investment of US$83.3 million, and is being managed by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB).

Prime Minister Phillips underscored that beyond Region Two, the GUYSOL project will bring 10 MWp of solar power to Trafalgar and Prospect in Region Five, as well as to Hampshire in Region Six. An additional 15 MWp of solar capacity is expected to be procured later this year for Linden in Region 10.

The GUYSOL programme is primarily funded by the Guyana REDD+ Investment Fund, a climate initiative created under the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS). This fund, originally established under the previous People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government, was designed to channel revenue from Guyana’s climate services into projects that support a low-carbon transition.

The project had been stalled for five years under the former APNU+AFC government, but after returning to office, the PPP/C administration revived it.

Kesh Nandlall, Head of the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) Executive Management Committee, stated that the project is the largest of its kind ever undertaken in Guyana.

He added that it will enhance the stability of power generation in Region Two communities.

The GUYSOL project will include the installation of 33 MWp of solar PV by 2026, alongside various social initiatives, with a total investment of US$83.3 million.

Meanwhile, Regional Chairperson Vilma De Silva expressed her support for the project, noting the growing demand for electricity as more industries establish a presence in Region Two.

She commended the government for taking bold steps towards a renewable energy future, stating that this solar initiative will transform the region and bring long-term benefits to its residents.

These solar projects represent the largest renewable energy investment in Guyana’s history, providing a foundation for future growth in renewable power generation and supporting the country’s transition away from fossil fuels.

The solar farm project will also include community-focused initiatives. These will include training 50 women in solar photovoltaic (PV) installation, offering paid apprenticeships, and supporting solar job development programmes that target men and women, including individuals with disabilities.

The solar farms will significantly reduce carbon emissions and lower the cost of electricity generation, providing more affordable and reliable power to residents of Region Two. The programme will also improve the operation and management of isolated power systems in Essequibo and Linden, enhancing energy security while fostering local expertise in solar technology.

This project stands as a testament to Guyana’s commitment to a greener, more sustainable future, setting the stage for continued growth in the renewable energy sector.