-by David Clarke
As Guyana continues to expand its energy production capacity and pursue major infrastructure development, Prime Minister Mark Phillips says energy efficiency must now be treated as a national priority and a key pillar of the country’s long-term development strategy.
PM Phillips says Guyana’s long-term energy security will depend not only on expanding generation capacity but also improving energy efficiency across the country. Addressing an energy efficiency and conservation seminar, the Prime Minister says global volatility and rising utility costs have made efficient energy use increasingly important.
“The strategic answer that addresses the root of our vulnerability is to reduce our dependence on imported energy through the twin pillars of renewable energy supply and energy efficiency,” he said.
The Prime Minister says the government is simultaneously pursuing a supply-side transformation of historic proportions through major investments in generation capacity and renewable energy infrastructure. He noted that Guyana has added 186 megawatts of new generation capacity since August 2020, including 37 megawatts from renewable sources.
“Over 186 megawatts of new generating capacity. We have constructed solar farms, completed two mini-hydropower plants, installed 46 solar mini-grids, and distributed 37,230 solar home energy systems,” he further pointed out.
The government is also targeting 600 megawatts of natural gas generation and 130 megawatts of solar energy by 2030, while advancing the Amayla Falls hydropower project.