PM inspects ongoing solar power plant construction at Wakenaam

Prime Minister (PM) Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, visited Wakenaam Island on Friday, to assess the ongoing construction of the 750-kilowatt (kW) solar photovoltaic (PV) power plant, an initiative aimed at significantly enhancing the island’s energy infrastructure.
According to the Office of the Prime Minister, during the visit, PM Phillips emphasised the pivotal role that renewable energy would play in the island’s further development.
Highlighting the project’s broader impact, he urged businesses on the island, and community leaders, to capitalise on the increased power supply for industrialisation and agro-processing activities.
“More power means more opportunities. This island is now poised for growth in sectors like agro-processing, tourism, and other industries. We encourage entrepreneurs to form cooperatives and explore new business ideas. The energy you will have will support your efforts to grow the island’s economy,” he advised.
The Prime Minister also drew comparisons to similar projects in other regions, noting the potential for Wakenaam to follow in the footsteps of places like Mahdia and Leguan Island, where infrastructure improvements have already paved the way for increased tourism and agricultural activities.
He emphasised the need to modernise industries, especially in agro-processing, which could help preserve and add value to local produce.
“As we move forward with these projects, it’s crucial that the people of Wakenaam and all of Guyana embrace this transformation…This is not just about solar energy; it’s about building sustainable livelihoods for you and future generations.”
Mr. Kesh Nandlall, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Guyana Power and Light (GPL), who accompanied the Prime Minister, stated that the current energy demand stands at 450 kW, and the new solar infrastructure is expected to quadruple the island’s energy generation capacity. He emphasised that this development will ensure a more reliable and sustainable electricity supply.
The solar project is part of the United Arab Emirates-Caribbean Renewable Energy Fund (UAE-CREF), with a total investment of US$2.3 million, and is expected to be completed by the end of this year. The facility will integrate with existing diesel generators, allowing for a seamless transition between renewable and traditional energy sources.
Dr Mahender Sharma, CEO of the Guyana Energy Agency (GEA), Regional Officials, and several technical officers from the GPL and GEA were also present.