Brighter days ahead: US$10.4M solar farm commissioned at Onderneeming

The Essequibo Coast has achieved a new milestone in renewable energy with the commissioning of the US$10.4 million Onderneeming 5MWp Solar Farm — the largest hybrid solar-plus-storage power station in the country. The facility is expected to deliver more stable and sustainable electricity to thousands of residents across Region Two, advancing Guyana’s clean energy transition.

At the commissioning ceremony, Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips hailed the project as a symbol of national progress.

“This project represents another step forward in our national efforts to deliver clean and affordable energy to the people of Guyana,” he said, commending contractors for transforming dense forestland into a modern facility on schedule. He described the achievement as a testament to the government’s commitment to renewable energy expansion.

The Onderneeming Solar Farm is equipped with a 7.5 MWh Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), making it Guyana’s first large-scale hybrid solar-plus-storage project. The system pairs 5 MW of solar generation with advanced battery technology, allowing excess electricity generated during the day to be stored and released after sunset. This feature will help stabilise the local grid and ensure a steady power supply even when sunlight is unavailable.

Occupying 13 acres, the facility marks a major development for the Essequibo Coast’s isolated grid. The region currently has about 16 MW of installed diesel generation capacity, with roughly 13 MW available due to maintenance, serving a peak demand of approximately 8.5 MW. The new solar farm contributes 4 MW of clean energy, while a sister facility at Charity—set to be commissioned soon—will add another 2.3 MW.

Together, the two projects will bring the region’s total generating capacity to about 22.3 MW, nearly three times its peak demand. The surplus will enhance reliability, enable generator maintenance without service interruptions, and reduce diesel consumption—cutting both costs and emissions.

Prime Minister Phillips reaffirmed that electricity rates will remain stable, adding that savings from reduced fossil fuel use will directly benefit residents. He also outlined the government’s broader energy strategy, including the construction of additional solar farms, the distribution of 37,000 solar panels to hinterland communities, and a planned 125 MW hydropower project by 2031.

“With energy and food security at the forefront, Guyana is moving closer to climate security,” he said. “Our President continues to lead the charge globally on behalf of all Guyanese.”

Guyana Power and Light (GPL) Executive Manager Kesh Nandlall described the project as “transformative,” noting its role in the GUYSOL Programme, which aims to deliver 33 MW of solar power nationwide. “Essequibo’s power demand is around 8 megawatts by day and 8.5 by night. With this addition, the region’s capacity now stands at 22 megawatts—a significant boost for reliability and growth,” he said.

Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) Country Representative Lorena Solorzano commended the initiative as a strong example of innovation under the Guyana–Norway climate agreement. “Guyana is well on track to achieving 19 percent renewable energy integration,” she said, adding that the project benefits more than 12,000 residents, including schools and health facilities.

She also highlighted the project’s social impact, citing the training of nine women in solar PV installation. “This initiative not only powers homes but empowers people—especially women—by creating new technical opportunities,” Solorzano said.

Minister within the Ministry of Public Works Deodat Indar credited the project to determination and teamwork led by President Dr. Irfaan Ali and Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo. “This project is the result of extraordinary collaboration across multiple sectors,” he said.

Regional Chairman Devin Mohan expressed pride in Region Two’s growing contribution to Guyana’s energy future, noting that many materials were sourced locally. “Region Two continues to transform in every sector, and this solar farm is a shining example of that progress,” he said.

The Onderneeming Solar Farm was executed through a joint venture between SUMEC Complete Equipment and Engineering Company Limited and XJ Group Corporation. It was financed under the US$83.3 million Guyana–Norway partnership, administered by the IDB.