Guyana is advancing its solar energy initiatives, aiming to achieve 39 MW of solar capacity by 2025. This ambitious target is a key component of the country’s broader strategy to transition to renewable energy sources, reduce its dependence on fossil fuels, and contribute to global efforts in mitigating climate change. You can read more about Guyana’s solar capacity expansion in this article: Guyana solar energy capacity: Impressive 39 MW Expansion by 2025.
Guyana Solar Energy Capacity: Utility-Scale Projects
Guyana is making significant progress with two major utility-scale solar projects: a 10 MW solar farm at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) and the 30 MW Wales Solar Farm. These projects represent a substantial investment in Guyana’s renewable energy infrastructure.
The Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) project involves the construction of a 10 MW solar photovoltaic (PV) plant on 30 acres near the airport. The project is financed by a US$83.3 million loan from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB). The Guyana Power and Light (GPL) has selected the contractor, and construction is scheduled to commence in the first quarter of 2024, with anticipated completion by the end of the year.
The 30 MW Wales Solar Farm, another significant undertaking, is expected to begin construction in the second quarter of 2024, with completion slated for the second quarter of 2025. This project will significantly contribute to Guyana’s renewable energy generation capacity.
According to Minister Deodat Indar, both the CJIA and Wales Solar Farm projects are on track to begin energy production shortly after their respective completion dates. The government is also actively planning a second phase of solar expansion, aiming to add an additional 60 MW of solar capacity to the national grid by 2026. This demonstrates Guyana’s long-term commitment to solar energy development.
Guyana Solar Energy Capacity: Expanding Access in Rural Areas
Beyond utility-scale projects, Guyana is prioritizing rural electrification through the distribution of solar home systems to remote hinterland communities. This initiative aims to improve living standards and promote sustainable energy use in areas with limited access to the national grid. Guyana solar investment: 21 Villages to Receive GYD 885M in Solar … highlights the government’s commitment to expanding access to electricity in these areas.
The government, through the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) and the Guyana Energy Agency (GEA), is distributing 30,000 solar home systems under the Guyana Utility Scale Solar Photovoltaic Programme (GUYSOL). This program is funded by the Guyana REDD+ Investment Fund (GRIF) and implemented by the IDB, showcasing the collaborative effort to bring sustainable energy solutions to remote areas.
Guyana Solar Energy Capacity: Solar-Powered Water Systems
In addition to solar home systems, the government is implementing solar-powered water systems in hinterland villages. These systems offer a sustainable solution for providing clean and reliable water access to communities that previously relied on rainwater collection, thereby improving public health and overall quality of life.
The government has committed to installing 100 solar-powered water systems by the end of 2023, with significant progress already made. The long-term goal is to expand this program to all hinterland villages by 2025.
Guyana Solar Energy Capacity: Distributed Systems for Public Infrastructure
To further promote solar energy adoption and demonstrate its benefits, the government is implementing a distributed solar program. This initiative will install 1 MW of solar capacity on public infrastructure, including schools, hospitals, health centers, government buildings, and police stations. By reducing the government’s electricity costs, this program aims to free up resources for other critical public services while raising awareness about the advantages of solar energy. The government has already achieved its initial 1 MW target and plans to expand the program by an additional 5 MW by 2026.
Guyana Solar Energy Capacity: Future Prospects
Guyana’s commitment to solar energy is integral to its sustainable development strategy and its efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The government is actively exploring opportunities to expand its solar capacity beyond the initial 39 MW target by 2025, collaborating with international partners to develop new solar projects and further advance its renewable energy goals. While programs like the “Solar for All” initiative have faced setbacks (Solar for All canceled: Shocking $7 Billion Program Cut – PVKnowhow), Guyana remains steadfast in its pursuit of a sustainable energy future powered by solar. The planned Leguan Solar Plant (Leguan Solar Plant to Launch 600 kW by May 2025: Amazing Benefits) further exemplifies this commitment.
