Guyana has officially commissioned a 750-kilowatt peak (kWp) solar farm on Wakenaam Island, a significant stride towards enhancing the nation's energy security and sustainable development goals. Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips inaugurated the facility, located within the Wakenaam Power Plant compound, on a date not specified in the provided information, emphasizing its role in meeting and potentially surpassing the island’s current energy demands.

The US$2.3 million project, a key initiative of the UAE-Caribbean Renewable Energy Fund, represents a substantial investment in Guyana’s clean energy infrastructure. The farm incorporates advanced photovoltaic (PV) modules, inverters, and sophisticated battery-storage systems designed to stabilize the local grid and store surplus energy for periods of low sunlight. Crucially, the system operates as a hybrid solution, seamlessly integrating with existing diesel generation to ensure robust reliability and sustainability for the island's predominantly agricultural economy, opening avenues for small-scale industrial development.

Prime Minister Phillips underscored the broader national vision, stating, “As a government, this project is one of many projects that we will continue to focus on, because we believe in people-centred development.” He further articulated the ambition for Guyana to become not only power-secure but also a potential exporter of electricity to neighboring countries. This strategic direction aligns with the government's commitment to improving the lives and livelihoods of all Guyanese citizens through widespread infrastructure development.

Industry analysis highlights that utility-scale solar farms, such as the Wakenaam facility, typically offer a lower cost per watt compared to distributed rooftop solar installations. Their primary advantage lies in their capacity to distribute electricity to hundreds, even thousands, of consumers, fostering a communal benefit and ensuring broader access to affordable power. These farms utilize larger solar panels, often with outputs exceeding 500 watts, maximizing energy generation efficiency.

Following the success of the Wakenaam project, the government plans to commission another solar farm on Leguan Island, also situated in Region Three. This expansion reflects a pervasive 'solar farm culture' that is gaining momentum across Guyana, aiming to establish reliable power as a cornerstone for national development. Consistent and dependable electricity supply is critical for powering homes, businesses, and essential services like hospitals and schools, underpinning economic growth, technological advancement, and an improved quality of life across the nation.