Dear Editor,
Guyana’s pathway to being a recognized global force is truly up and running. This news is great that “Region Eight residents (will) see (a) 30% reduction in electricity tariff …” because of their new solar farm. Worth some $362.4 million, this solar farm in Mahdia, is in synchrony with how things should be done, when it comes to proper power generation, even amidst Guyana’s oil boom.
Readers worldwide know that any Low Carbon Development Strategy is crucial globally because it enables economic growth, while minimizing greenhouse gas emissions. This approach offers the recommended pathway to sustainable development, improved energy security, and enhanced environmental protection. It also fosters opportunities for innovation, job creation, and a more resilient economy.
According to President Irfaan Ali, these residents of Mahdia and Campbelltown, currently receiving electricity from the Mahdia Power & Light Company Inc. will now benefit from this venture, and similar benefits will be extended to other hinterland and riverine communities, through this kind of implementation of integrated renewable energy systems. The present realization forms part of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic Government’s broader commitment to expand clean energy across Guyana. Add to this, and in the words of Prime Minister, Mark Phillips, the solar farm’s economic and environmental benefits are massive, as the project is expected to reduce diesel consumption by approximately 309,681 litres per year, and thus saving about $80.5 million. Plus, this will cut carbon dioxide emissions by over 672,000 kilograms annually.
I ask that we all bear in mind that similar solar PV installations have already been completed in Lethem and Bartica, and additional projects are planned for Wakenaam, Leguaan, and other communities. The net effect is that these combined efforts are expected to increase Guyana’s solar energy capacity to more than 39 MW by 2025.
Putting this in the common man’s everyday language, 1 megawatt (MW) can power roughly 1,000 households. Therefore, 39 MW could potentially power around 39,000 households. And if we are bothered, I remind nay-sayers that Conservation International has hailed the country’s LCDS 2030 as a model for nature and development, highlighting Guyana’s commitment to protecting biodiversity and valuing ecosystem services. The strategy has also achieved several “world-firsts” in payments for forest climate services, including the world’s first jurisdictional carbon credits under the ART-TREES standard and the largest forest carbon credit sale in the voluntary carbon market.
My recent check showed that eight countries are net zero-Bhutan, the Comoros, Gabon, Guyana, Madagascar, Niue, Panama, and Suriname. So, Guyana is right up there as steps are always taken to massively reduce carbon emissions.
