Solar farm energises East Canje communities

The newly commissioned 3-megawatt-peak (MWp) solar farm at Prospect, Berbice, rises from the landscape as a symbol of Guyana’s expanding renewable-energy ambitions—one that residents say brings both hope and a long-awaited sense of stability to Region Six.

Set against the quiet fields of East Canje, the project adds another tranche of clean power to the national grid, marking a steady shift toward modernising how communities across the country receive electricity.

Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, who led the commissioning on Saturday, framed the moment as part of a much broader national journey. He described the facility as a technical achievement but also as a signpost of a future the administration is actively shaping.

“Every renewable project that we commission is another step toward an energy system that is modern, affordable and resilient, and by extension will lead to a brighter future for Guyana,” he said. He added that, “Beyond that, each project reflects the values of our government that is committed to lifting the quality of life for every Guyanese in every community throughout the length and breadth of Guyana.”

In nearby communities, the reaction was immediate—and emotional. For residents like Youdhisthir Persaud, the project represents more than an infrastructure upgrade; it marks a turning point for families long affected by unreliable power.

“The government is doing a wonderful job for the people of this country, and we must thank them for what they are doing. I love the project; it will support the people in this area,” Persaud said. As he reflected on the future, he added, “as a senior citizen, I am so jealous to know that the young generation will enjoy such a wonderful thing.”

Others shared the sense that this transition was overdue. Frank John, watching the rows of panels gleam in the afternoon sun, said the shift marked a cultural and generational change: “I think it is an excellent idea to have solar panels to supplement our electricity generation. For too long, the country has relied totally on fossil fuels.”

For Sean Smith, the significance of the project stretches far beyond East Canje. He sees it as part of a national transformation that will reshape how Guyanese live and work.

“This is a massive project, the entire East Canje will benefit, and soon all Guyanese will benefit, the country at large, but what is more impressive, is how it will contribute to the mitigation of fossil fuel and how easier and accessible energy will be for us in Region Six. I think this is great planning from the government,” he said.

The Prospect solar farm joins a growing network of renewable-energy projects reshaping Guyana’s energy landscape. Earlier this year, Wakenaam welcomed a 750-kilowatt solar installation. In Region Two, the 5MWp Onderneeming solar-plus-storage facility—the largest hybrid system in the country—became operational. Another project at Charity on the Essequibo Coast is nearing completion.

Together, these projects form the backbone of a long-term strategy that Prime Minister Phillips says is aimed at strengthening energy security, cutting fuel costs, and moving the country toward a low-carbon electricity system. (DPI)