No Planet B: Guyana expands clean energy for the next generation

There is no alternative to the Earth we share. This report looks at how Guyana is acting on that idea. It uses research from the Guyana Energy Agency (GEA).

Guyana is scaling solar power. It is also helping homes and businesses save energy. These steps cut fuel use and lower emissions. They also improve energy access in remote regions. The push spans grid projects, rooftop systems, and home kits. 

Key points at a glance

• 33 MW of utility-scale solar under the GUYSOL program. 
• 30,000 off-grid home solar systems launched in 2023. Distribution is now completed. 
• Net-billing allows customers with PV to earn credits for excess power. 
• Grid-forming solar commissioned at Mahdia and Leguan to curb diesel use. 
• Efficiency standards set for LEDs and air conditioners. 

What’s new in solar

The GUYSOL plan adds 33 megawatts of solar farms. Sites include Essequibo, Berbice, and Linden. These plants will reduce fossil-fuel use. They will also cut carbon emissions from power generation. 

Grid-forming projects now support small systems. Mahdia got a 0.65 MW solar farm in December 2024. Leguan added a 0.60 MW farm in August 2025. The Leguan site includes a 1,200 kWh battery system. It is valued at about G$292.1 million. 

Quick program facts

Reaching remote communities

In July 2023, the Government launched 30,000 home systems. The kits serve hinterland and riverine areas. By December 2023, 26,398 units had been distributed. Each 160-Watt system can power two LED lamps and a fan. It also includes a USB port for charging devices. 

In January 2025, officials said distribution was completed. The full rollout adds over 4.8 MW of capacity. It benefits about 140,000 people in more than 245 communities. The program expands access and supports daily life.

Rooftop growth and net-billing

Distributed rooftop capacity is about 6.5 MWp on the grid. The Government plans to grow this number. It will expand net-billing and upgrade the network. The goal is more rooftop power without risking stability. 

The Net-Billing Programme pays for excess energy. Customers with grid-tied PV send power back and earn credits. This makes rooftop solar more practical. It also supports the wider transition. 

Businesses are moving too. One local company paired solar with an electric vehicle. Fiscal policy also helps. Renewable tech can receive customs duty and VAT exemptions. Importers of solar and wind items may get a two-year tax holiday. 

Efficiency: the other clean resource

Guyana backs standards and guidance on efficiency. Labels now cover LEDs, CFLs, and air conditioners. There is also a standard for energy management systems. These tools help buyers choose better products. And they drive savings at scale. 

Public tips keep it simple. Compare energy labels, not only prices. Look for ENERGY STAR and strong efficiency ratings. Set appliances to recommended levels. Small changes save money and power. 

Easy efficiency actions

• Check labels before you buy fridges, ACs, and lights. 
• Use LEDs and avoid over-cooling rooms. 
• Right-size AC units and aim for higher seasonal ratings. 

Why it matters

Solar farms can lower fuel imports and costs. Off-grid kits bring light and charging to homes. Net-billing makes rooftop choices easier. And efficiency reduces demand. Together, these steps cut emissions because less diesel is burned. 

What to watch next

• The timeline for the full 33 MW GUYSOL buildout. 
• Performance data from the Mahdia and Leguan sites. 
• Uptake under the Net-Billing Programme by schools and clinics. 
• Updates to appliance standards and consumer guides.