Guyana is set to significantly boost its renewable energy capacity by commissioning eight large-scale solar farms in 2025. This initiative is part of the government’s broader strategy to transition towards renewable energy and reduce its carbon footprint.
Guyana solar energy: Solar Farms Capacity and Locations
The solar farms, which will have a total capacity of 33 megawatts (MW), are being constructed as part of the Guyana Utility Scale Solar Photovoltaic Programme (GUYSOL) financed by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB). This program is designed to reduce electricity costs, cut greenhouse gas emissions, and improve energy services throughout the country.
The solar farms will be installed in Berbice, Linden, and Essequibo, three of Guyana’s ten administrative regions. These projects are expected to provide electricity to over 25,000 homes, thereby increasing the share of renewables in the national energy mix. According to the Guyana Solar Panel Manufacturing Report, Guyana is poised to witness significant growth in its solar energy capacity, with estimates suggesting that 100MW of Solar PV capacity will be operational by 2030.
Government Efforts and Investments in Guyana solar energy
The government has been actively working to expand Guyana’s renewable energy capacity. In 2022, the National Assembly approved the establishment of the Guyana Utility Scale Solar Programme (GUYSOL), which aims to develop 33 MW of solar power capacity in the country.
In addition to the GUYSOL program, the government is also working on other renewable energy projects. The Amaila Falls Hydropower Project, with a capacity of 165 MW, is expected to be completed by 2027. This project will provide 24/7 renewable energy and further reduce the country’s dependence on fossil fuels.
To support the development of renewable energy, the government has also secured a US$83.3 million loan from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB). This loan will fund six solar farms with a total capacity of 10 MW, a 12 MW battery energy storage system, and a 5 MW solar farm with a 2.8 MW battery energy storage system. In 2023, Guyana witnessed a significant expansion of its solar energy capacity, with the installation of 6.661 megawatts of solar photovoltaic (PV) power.
Environmental and Economic Benefits of Guyana solar energy
The development of solar farms in Guyana is expected to have significant environmental and economic benefits. By reducing the country’s reliance on fossil fuels, these projects will help Guyana reduce its carbon emissions and contribute to global efforts to combat climate change.
Economically, the solar farms will provide a more stable and affordable source of electricity, reducing the cost of energy for businesses and households. This will help to stimulate economic growth and improve the quality of life for Guyanese citizens.
Future Prospects for Renewable Energy in Guyana solar energy
The development of solar farms in Guyana is just the beginning of the country’s renewable energy journey. The government has ambitious plans to further expand its renewable energy capacity, with a target of 800 MW of installed capacity by 2030.
In addition to solar power, the government is also exploring other renewable energy sources such as wind and hydropower. These projects will help to diversify the country’s energy mix and reduce its dependence on fossil fuels.
The solar farms being commissioned in 2025 are just one example of the government’s commitment to building a greener and more sustainable future for Guyana.
