Two solar photovoltaic (PV) mini-grids were commissioned in the communities of Karaburi and Haimacabra in Moruca, Region One (Barima-Waini) by Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d), the Honourable Mark Phillips on Friday.
The solar PV mini-grids are part of several renewable energy initiatives being implemented by the Government of Guyana through the Guyana Energy Agency (GEA). These initiatives aim to provide affordable, stable and reliable energy access to communities across the country, aligning with the objectives of the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) 2030.
In his remarks, the Prime Minister expressed his satisfaction with the commissioning and emphasized that the solar PV projects are crucial for fulfilling the Government’s promise of bridging the energy divide and fostering inclusive development. He said these projects will ensure that all Guyanese, particularly those in Hinterland and riverine communities, benefit from sustainable energy solutions.
At Karaburi, the newly installed 19-kilowatt (kW) solar PV system is supported by 85-kilowatt hours (kWh) of battery storage, and it will provide power to eight important community buildings. Additionally, this solar project follows the earlier distribution of 137 solar home energy systems to households in the community, which has already enhanced residents’ daily lives by supplying renewable energy.
In Haimacabra, a 21.5-kilowatt (kW) solar PV system with 94-kilowatt hours (kWh) of battery storage is powering seven key community buildings, including the teacher’s quarters, primary and nursery schools, the hot meals kitchen, and health centre. This solar project also builds on the earlier distribution of 245 solar home energy systems to households in the community.
Prime Minister Phillips reiterated the Government’s longstanding commitment to Hinterland development, emphasising that: “As long as the PPP/C Government remains in power …we will continue to bring development and improvements to the lives of all our people, and all the people in your communities. Your children who are with us today now have electricity, they have internet, they have better health facilities, better school facilities, because of the PPP/C Government and the promises to the people that we’re implementing since August 02nd, 2020.”
Mr. Jerome Khan, Chairman and Mr. Vivian Lam, Director on the Guyana Energy Agency Board accompanied the Prime Minister to the Commissioning ceremony. Chairman of the Board, Mr. Khan, commended the Government on advancing renewable energy initiatives and highlighted the Board’s governance role for the Guyana Energy Agency.
Dr. Mahender Sharma, Chief Executive Officer of the GEA underscored the role Amerindians have played in taking care of the environment and encouraged the communities to extend their care to the newly installed solar mini-grids.