Residents of Bartica will soon benefit from a 25 per cent reduction in electricity costs from July following the commissioning of a 1.5-megawatt solar photovoltaic farm aimed at lowering energy expenses and improving reliability in the Region Seven township.
President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali made the announcement during a community engagement in Bartica on Monday, where he outlined the impact of the renewable energy project on cutting fuel consumption and reducing emissions.
The more than $703 million solar facility is already supplying electricity to the township and has significantly reduced dependence on imported diesel for power generation.
“The 1.5-megawatt solar PV farm is now supplying electricity to Bartica,” President Ali said. “This investment has resulted in the savings of 6,148 drums of diesel and eliminates approximately 3,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions.”
Ali said the reduction forms part of the government’s wider commitment to slash electricity rates by 50 per cent nationwide through investments in renewable energy and modern energy infrastructure.
He added that the government is also pursuing expanded off-grid renewable energy systems in hinterland communities, where residents are seeking greater access to reliable electricity beyond public buildings and community facilities.
“Communities now want expanded energy services to every household and every household to have a sustainable supply… This is about making people’s lives better,” the president said.
The lower electricity costs are expected to ease living expenses for households and businesses while supporting economic activity in the region. (DPI)
