Guyana plans to improve electricity supply ahead of Christmas season

The government of Guyana is working towards delivering a solution to the country’s electricity disruptions by the holiday season. 

Amidst the current load-shedding measures, Guyana Power and Light (GPL) has engaged in critical discussions with local business leaders, signaling a strategic intervention to enhance the power supply.

Strategic investments to power progress

The Ministry of Public Works has actively invested in the energy sector’s infrastructure. Deodat Indar, Minister within the Ministry, has spearheaded the procurement of 17 generator sets, channeling US$27.5 million into this initiative. 

These generators, each with a 1.7-megawatt capacity, are expected to contribute 28.9 megawatts to the national grid collectively.

Countdown to energy enhancement

The delivery of these new engines to Guyana, slated for November 22nd, is a critical step towards augmenting the nation’s power generation. 

Indar shared that the plan is to have these generators operational and connected to the grid by December 15th, just in time to ensure a reliable power supply for the Christmas period.

Planning ahead: Addressing future energy needs

He further said that while addressing the immediate challenges, GPL also prepares for future demands. 

With the upcoming 300-megawatt gas-to-energy project on the horizon, the power company is already strategizing to meet an expected peak demand of 236 megawatts in 2024.

Tracking the rise in energy consumption

The country’s energy consumption has been upward, with the reliable generation capacity significantly improving from the fluctuations seen in 2020. 

Indar noted the progression from a peak of 120 megawatts in 2020 to 184.5 megawatts this year illustrates the increasing demands placed on Guyana's energy infrastructure.

Indar has assured that the government is steadfast resolve to tackle the electricity issues.