–Highlights major energy gains, expanding renewable projects and ambitious plans to drive sustainable growth
Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips on Wednesday signalled Guyana’s firm commitment to building a resilient, low-carbon and investment-ready energy sector as he delivered the opening address for Day Two of the Guyana Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo, held under the theme “Building Tomorrow’s Future Today.”
With delegates from more than 30 countries in attendance, discussions centred on the policy frameworks shaping the region’s energy trajectory and the role of governments in steering sustainable development within a rapidly evolving global energy landscape.
Addressing hundreds of stakeholders, the Prime Minister described the present period as a defining moment for both global and regional energy development, noting that Guyana’s expanding resource base places the country at a critical juncture.
“The choices we make today will shape the future of our economy, the environment and the lives of the next generation,” he told the gathering, while emphasising the responsibility to protect, efficiently manage and equitably utilise the nation’s resources.
Phillips expressed confidence in Guyana’s forward momentum, underscoring that reliable, affordable and sustainable energy remains central to strengthening infrastructure, advancing human capital development and sustaining long-term economic growth. He pointed to tangible progress already realised, including the rollout of several mini-grid initiatives and other energy projects across the country.
Since August 2020, more than 186 megawatts of new generating capacity have been added to the national grid, significantly boosting supply reliability and supporting expanding industrial and commercial activity. The Prime Minister further noted that in 2026, a sum of $119.4 billion has been allocated to continue implementation of the national energy strategy, signalling sustained fiscal commitment to sector transformation.
Looking ahead, he announced that additional electric vehicle charging stations will be installed in 2026 as part of efforts to promote low-carbon transportation and accelerate the transition to cleaner energy systems. Complementary measures will include expanded public education campaigns on energy conservation, appliance energy-labelling standards and the retrofitting of public buildings with solar photovoltaic systems.
At the core of Guyana’s energy agenda, the Prime Minister stressed, is inclusive and sustainable development, with equitable access to energy services positioned as a non-negotiable priority.
“Energy access must be equitable. It must reach our coastal regions and our hinterland villages,” Phillips emphasised, framing universal access as both a social and economic imperative.
Speaking directly to international and local investors, he called for strengthened global cooperation to unlock financing, technology transfer and technical expertise needed to accelerate clean energy innovation in developing economies.
“To investors here today, I wish to declare that Guyana is open for sustainable business,” the Prime Minister stated, reinforcing the country’s positioning as a stable, forward-looking destination for energy investment and partnership.
