Suriname Solar Energy: Advancing a Sustainable Future
Suriname is making significant strides in sustainable development by expanding access to solar energy. With an average of six hours of sunshine daily, the country is well-positioned to harness this renewable resource. The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is playing a key role in this transition, supporting the country’s efforts to increase solar energy use and integrate it into the national grid. This aligns with Suriname’s broader commitment to a cleaner energy future, as evidenced by projects like the 30 MWp solar park development in Degrad des Cannes, Paramaribo [https://www.pvknowhow.com/news/suriname-solar-park-30mwp-development/].
The Suriname Renewable Energy Access Project (SREAP), launched in 2019, is a major initiative promoting solar energy across the country. Funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the Government of Suriname, SREAP aims to reduce the country’s reliance on fossil fuels and extend electricity access to remote communities. This project is a collaboration between the Ministry of Natural Resources, UNDP, and other partners.
In its first year, SREAP installed a 100-kilowatt (kW) solar mini-grid in the village of Pikin Slee in the Upper Suriname River area. This mini-grid provides electricity to 150 households, schools, health clinics, and other community facilities, reducing the community’s dependence on diesel generators and improving the quality of life for residents.
Expanding Access to Suriname Solar Energy with Mini-Grids
Building on the success in Pikin Slee, SREAP expanded to other communities. In 2023, the project began installing solar mini-grids in several villages in the Sipaliwini district, including Duwatra, Gujaba, Laduani, Ligorio, Nieuw Aurora, and Semoisie. These systems have a combined capacity of 1.5 megawatts (MW) and benefit approximately 5,000 residents. Further demonstrating Suriname’s commitment to solar, 10,000 solar panels were delivered as part of a photovoltaic project funded by the UAE [https://www.pvknowhow.com/news/suriname-photovoltaic-project-success-10000-solar-panels-delivered/].
The installation of solar mini-grids offers numerous benefits: reliable electricity, reduced reliance on costly and polluting diesel generators, support for economic development by enabling businesses and creating jobs in the solar sector, and improved access to education and healthcare. More information about Suriname’s solar initiatives can be found at [https://www.pvknowhow.com/category/pv-news/south-america-news/suriname/].
SREAP also focuses on building local capacity. UNDP has worked with the Ministry of Natural Resources to develop supportive policies and regulations for renewable energy sector growth. The project has also trained local technicians to maintain and operate the solar systems.
A key SREAP component is the development of a net metering program, allowing households and businesses with solar panels to sell excess electricity back to the grid, incentivizing solar investment and ensuring efficient electricity use.
Suriname Solar Energy and National Renewable Energy Policy
The Government of Suriname has developed a National Renewable Energy Policy, targeting a 35% share of renewable energy in the country’s electricity mix by 2030, focusing on solar, wind, and hydropower. The policy also attracts private sector investment in renewable energy. The launch of a 30 MWp solar park signifies a significant step towards achieving these goals [https://www.pvknowhow.com/news/suriname-solar-park-launches-30-mwp-project-for-extraordinary-energy-future/].
Suriname plans to further expand its solar capacity, with identified sites for large-scale projects, including a 10 MW solar farm near Paramaribo, expected to be completed by 2025, providing electricity to thousands of households and businesses.
The success of SREAP and other solar initiatives demonstrates renewable energy’s potential to drive sustainable development in Suriname. By leveraging its solar resources, Suriname is reducing its reliance on fossil fuels, improving electricity access, and creating economic opportunities. With continued support from international partners like UNDP, Suriname is progressing towards its renewable energy goals and a more sustainable future.
