The construction of two solar farms in Region Two has now entered an advanced stage, with steady progress being made at both sites.
Once completed, these farms will generate a total of 8 Megawatts peak (MWp) of solar power, supported by 12 MWp of battery storage, significantly enhancing the region’s renewable energy capacity.
MWp is a unit of measurement for the output of power from a source such as solar or wind where the output may vary according to the strength of sunlight or wind speed. MWp is a measure of the maximum potential output of power.
The project contract, signed in March 2025, calls for 5 MWp of solar capacity at Onderneeming, backed by 7.5 MWp of battery storage and 3 MWp of solar panels at Charity, supported by 4.5 MWp of battery power.
These installations are part of the Guyana Utility-Scale Photovoltaic Pro-gramme (GUYSOL), a key government initiative aimed at diversifying Guyana’s energy mix by introducing large-scale solar farms. The project represents a critical step in the country’s transition to a more sustainable and resilient energy infrastructure.
At the project site, Head of the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) Executive Management Committee, Kesh Nandlall, highlighted the initiative’s social and economic impact. As part of the project, 50 women are being trained in solar photovoltaic (PV) installation, with paid apprenticeships and job development programmes benefiting both men and women, including individuals with disabilities.
Once operational, the solar farms will significantly reduce carbon emissions, lower electricity costs, and provide affordable, reliable power to Region Two residents.
The project will improve the management of isolated power systems in Essequibo and Linden, strengthening energy security while fostering local expertise in solar technology.
GPL’s Programme Coordinator, Amir Dillawar, reported that over 15 acres of forested land were cleared to facilitate the project. Since the sod-turning ceremony in September 2024, substantial civil works have been completed.
The project has now progressed to the pile-driving phase, with 100 piles being installed daily. Of the two farms, Onderneeming is the more advanced, with significant structural development already in place. Based on current construction momentum, the project is on track for completion by December 2025.
The solar farm project is being executed by SUMEC Complete Equipment and Engineering Company Limited, in collaboration with XJ Group Corporation. The initiative is financed through the Guyana/Norway partnership, with a total investment of US$83.3 million, and is managed by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB).
Meanwhile, Project Manager of SUMEC Complete Equipment, Tong Tiguan, noted that over 40 local labourers have been employed, with workers engaged daily to keep the project moving forward.
And Regional Chairperson Vilma De Silva expressed her excitement about the project, emphasising its long-term economic and social benefits. She pointed out that increased renewable energy availability will not only support residential power needs but also create opportunities for tourism, manufacturing, and other industries to expand and thrive in the region.
