In a significant step toward Guyana’s renewable energy ambitions, Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips on Friday officially commissioned a 750-kilowatt peak (kWp) solar photovoltaic farm at the Wakenaam Power Plant compound. The new facility is set to meet and surpass the entire energy demand of Wakenaam Island, ushering in a new era of reliable, clean electricity for residents and businesses.
During the commissioning ceremony, Prime Minister Phillips emphasized the transformative impact of the project, describing it as a catalyst for further development on the Essequibo River island. “This project is a catalyst for further development. We encourage residents to harness this energy to improve livelihoods, including through agro-processing and other small-scale industries,” Phillips stated.
The solar farm, valued at approximately US$2.3 million, was developed as part of the UAE-Caribbean Renewable Energy Fund (UAE-CREF) and is designed to integrate seamlessly with existing diesel generators, ensuring a stable and sustainable power supply. The facility not only provides energy security but also aligns with Guyana’s Low Carbon Development Strategy 2030, which aims to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and transition toward a greener economy.
With Wakenaam’s current energy demand standing at about 450 kilowatts, the new solar installation is expected to more than quadruple the island’s generation capacity. This surplus will support the expansion of local industries, tourism, and commercial activities, while also reducing carbon emissions and enhancing the quality of life for the island’s residents.
Prime Minister Phillips encouraged entrepreneurs and community leaders to capitalize on the increased power supply, highlighting opportunities for industrialization, agro-processing, and tourism. He drew parallels to similar renewable energy projects in other regions, noting their positive impact on economic growth and community development.
The commissioning of the Wakenaam solar farm marks a major milestone in Guyana’s broader renewable energy program, which includes utility-scale solar farms, mini-grids, and ongoing upgrades to the national grid. As Guyana continues to invest in sustainable energy infrastructure, projects like this are expected to play a pivotal role in the nation’s energy transformation and long-term sustainability.
