GEORGETOWN, Guyana — Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips on Friday reaffirmed Guyana’s commitment to a low-carbon energy future as the country joins regional partners in observing CARICOM Energy Month 2025, celebrated in November under the theme “Invest, Innovate, Sustain: Leading the Charge in Renewable Energy Frontiers.”
Phillips said the observance comes at a pivotal moment for the Caribbean, as member states accelerate efforts to transform their energy systems, reduce fossil-fuel dependence, and strengthen climate resilience.
“This annual observance presents a timely opportunity to reflect on the region’s immense renewable energy potential and the progress over the years, address critical energy challenges, and reaffirm our commitment to the energy transition,” he said.
Guyana’s Low-Carbon Transition
Phillips highlighted Guyana’s “strong commitment to sustainability,” noting that the government is scaling up renewable energy technologies, modernizing power systems, and expanding electric mobility. These initiatives cover multiple sectors including health, transportation, agriculture, telecommunications, and education.
The country’s energy goals are anchored in the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) 2030 and its Nationally Determined Contributions, which aim to cut emissions, reduce energy costs, and expand equitable energy access. Guyana plans to add more than 500 megawatts of cleaner power by 2030 through a mix of solar, wind, hydropower and natural gas.
Major Renewable and Clean-Energy Investments
The Prime Minister outlined major infrastructure projects underway:
Gas-to-Energy Project, Wales
A 300-MW combined-cycle gas plant and Natural Gas Liquids facility, billed as the nation’s largest electricity investment, is projected to slash electricity costs by 50% when operational by 2026.
Hydropower Expansion
Construction of the 165-MW Amaila Falls project is advancing, alongside new operational mini-hydro stations in Moco Moco and Kumu in Region Nine. A third facility in Region Eight is expected soon.
Solar Investments
Guyana has installed over 3.15 MW of solar capacity in Lethem, Bartica, and Mahdia and recently commissioned solar farms in Wakenaam and Leguan. Thirty-three megawatts of utility-scale solar are being developed in Berbice, Essequibo and Linden, with another 3 MW planned at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport. More than 37,000 homes have benefitted from the Solar Home Energy Systems initiative.
Additionally, 32 completed solar mini-grids now power 368 public buildings in remote communities, with 25 more systems under development through partnerships including the EU and GIZ.
Electric Mobility
Guyana continues to advance electric transport, with six public charging stations commissioned and duty-free exemptions for all EVs. The government has procured 14 new charging stations, with three more under a Just Energy Transition initiative, all expected by late 2025. To support the growing sector, 77 technicians have been trained in EV maintenance.
Regional Collaboration
Phillips said CARICOM states are working together to mobilize financing and share best practices for renewable projects and capacity-building, emphasizing that each nation’s pathway is tailored to its needs but united by a shared commitment to climate resilience and energy independence.
“The choices we make today as a united Caribbean Community will shape the trajectory of our economies and the well-being of future generations,” he said. “The most promising path forward is to embrace the opportunities of CARICOM’s sustainable energy transition.”
The Prime Minister extended greetings to citizens, encouraging continued partnership and innovation.