Yesterday, a significant milestone in Guyana’s renewable energy journey was reached as the Guyana Power and Light Inc. (GPL) partnered with SUMEC Complete Equipment & Engineering Co. Ltd and XJ Group Corporation to sign an Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) contract.
This contract marks the commencement of an ambitious project under the Guyana Utility-Scale Solar Photovoltaic Program (GUYSOL), aimed at harnessing solar energy to power the nation’s grid.
The contract entails the installation of five Utility-Scale Ground-Mounted Solar PV Plants, each equipped with Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS). Together, these installations will contribute a substantial 18 MWp (Megawatt peak) of clean energy to GPL’s grid, a significant step towards diversifying Guyana’s energy portfolio.
Of the total capacity, 10 MWp will be allocated for the Demerara-Berbice Interconnected System (DBIS), while the remaining 8 MWp, along with BESS, will be dedicated to powering the Essequibo Coast. The project sites have been strategically chosen, with locations including Trafalgar, Hampshire, and Prospect on the East Bank of the Berbice River, as well as Onderneeming and Charity on the Essequibo Coast.
This groundbreaking initiative underscores the Government’s unwavering commitment to embracing climate-resilient renewable energy resources in electricity generation. It aligns seamlessly with the Guyana Low Carbon Development Strategy 2030, reflecting a concerted effort to mitigate the impacts of climate change while fostering sustainable development.
Financed through the Guyana/Norway partnership, the project boasts an estimated investment of US $83.3 million, with the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) entrusted with the administration of funding. This collaboration underscores the international community’s support for Guyana’s transition towards a greener, more sustainable energy future.
Notably, this isn’t the first foray into solar energy for GPL. In March 2023, the commissioning of the first Solar PV Installation in Bartica, Region 7, marked a significant milestone in the nation’s renewable energy journey, laying the groundwork for future expansion and innovation.
The signing ceremony, graced by esteemed dignitaries and key stakeholders, symbolized a collective commitment towards realizing Guyana’s renewable energy aspirations. Hon. Brigadier (Retired) Mark Phillips, Prime Minister of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, along with Hon. Dr. Ashni K. Singh, Senior Minister within the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance and the Public Service, and Hon. Deodat Indar, Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, were among the esteemed guests in attendance.
Ambassador Guo Haiyan, the Chinese Ambassador to Guyana, added to the international significance of the occasion, highlighting the collaborative spirit that underpins such transformative projects. Mr. Maurice Gajadhar, Chairman of the Board of Directors of GPL, and Mr. Kesh Nandlall, Team Leader Management Committee of GPL, represented the utility, underscoring its pivotal role in driving sustainable development.
Also present were Mr. Amir Dillawar, Program Coordinator of GUYSOL, whose dedication and vision have been instrumental in bringing this project to fruition. Together, these esteemed individuals and organizations stand united in their commitment to shaping a brighter, cleaner future for Guyana and generations to come.