WITH parliamentary approval of some $28.7 billion, the mobilisation and payments for further upgrades and expansions to various sections of Guyana’s electricity distribution networks are imminent.

This anticipated expansion and upgrade is intended to support the distribution of power from the Gas-to-Energy Project to the national grid.
When questioned about the allocated sum of $28,785,172,000, Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips told the Parliamentary Committee of Supply recently that in 2024, the Guyana Power and Light Inc. (GPL) had tendered for engineering, procurement, and financing services for the projects, but only received engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) bids, which now require government financing.

Against this backdrop, he indicated that in April of this year, Guyana signed two contracts for major power system upgrades totalling approximately US$422 million.
He noted, “These EPC projects will deliver affordable, reliable and cleaner electricity services for the 300-megawatt Natural Gas Power Plant located in Wales.”
To this end, the Prime Minister said the $28.7 billion sum will facilitate mobilisation, advance payments, and interim payments projected through December 2025, in accordance with the signed contracts.

Expected to be executed in three lots, he stated that the projects are scheduled for completion one year after the payment of the 15 per cent advance.
During the contract signing in April, it was emphasised that this historic investment is vital to ensuring the reliable delivery of power across Guyana, especially as the nation undergoes unprecedented economic growth.

The new transmission system will replace outdated infrastructure, integrating cutting-edge technology that aligns with international standards.
Project works include the construction of 155 kilometres of 230-kilovolt (kV) double-circuit transmission lines and 167 kilometres of 69 kV double-circuit transmission lines, along with the

development of five new substations and the upgrade of the Kingston substation in Georgetown.