Over 1600 residents across 3 Region 9 villages to benefit from $110M solar grids – PM

Over 1,600 residents across three Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) villages are set to benefit from improved access to electricity following the commissioning of solar mini-grids valued at a combined $110 million, aimed at strengthening healthcare delivery, supporting education and creating opportunities for small-scale economic activities. Prime Minister (PM) Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips on Friday commissioned solar energy facilities in Katoonarib, Potarinau and Shulinab, expanding the Government’s renewable energy programme in hinterland communities.

The systems will supply electricity to key public buildings, including health centres, schools, village offices and other community facilities, improving access to essential services in the remote communities.
At Katoonarib, the solar energy system represents an investment of approximately $33 million and comprises 41.5 kilowatts (kW) of solar panels and 187 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of battery storage.
The commissioning was followed by the inauguration of a $33 million solar mini-grid in Potarinau, the largest of the three communities benefiting from Friday’s exercise. Potarinau has approximately 685 residents across 123 households.
The Potarinau facility has 41.5 kW of solar generating capacity and 187 kWh of battery storage, providing electricity to educational facilities, the health centre, village offices and other community buildings.
The final commissioning took place in Shulinab, where a $44 million solar mini-grid was installed. The facility comprises 46 kW of solar generating capacity and 208 kWh of battery storage.

Together, the three systems represent an investment of approximately $110 million in renewable energy infrastructure.
Addressing residents during the ceremonies, Phillips said the investments are part of the Government’s commitment to ensuring that hinterland communities benefit from national development, regardless of their location.
He highlighted the importance of electricity and internet connectivity in creating opportunities for education, professional development, agriculture, agro-processing and small businesses.
The PM noted that eight villages in Region Nine are benefiting from similar renewable energy initiatives under the Government’s 2025–2026 programme.
At Shulinab, he also pointed to other development initiatives, including the construction of a secondary school, improvements to road infrastructure and the establishment of an information and communications technology (ICT) hub.
He said access to electricity and internet connectivity could strengthen healthcare delivery, support educational advancement and create further opportunities for economic development.
Phillips urged residents in all three communities to take ownership of the facilities and ensure they are properly maintained to maximise their benefits over the long term.
At Potarinau, he noted that with appropriate care and the periodic replacement of components, the system could serve the community for more than 20 years.
He also commended the Guyana Energy Agency (GEA), the Regional Administration and residents who contributed to the implementation of the projects.
The investments, he noted, are in keeping with the objectives of Guyana’s Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS 2030) and the Government’s broader efforts to expand access to reliable, clean energy in hinterland communities.