The government is investing $66 billion in the Electricity Expansion Programme to upgrade the national grid, improve reliability, and integrate renewable energy sources.
Minister of Public Utilities and Aviation, Deodat Indar, provided an overview of the planned upgrade during the Consideration of the Estimates and Expenditures of the budget 2026 on Tuesday.
Minister Indar explained to the Committee of Supply that the programme includes upgrades to the transmission line, substations, battery energy storage systems, advanced metering, and the integration of hydropower, solar, and diesel generation.
Addressing grid instability caused by high demand, he noted, “If a rat goes into a transformer that steps up 30 megawatts into the grid, it will bring down the entire system. This investment is to fix it. The backbone of the grid is now 230,000 volts, making it far more resilient.”
The minister also highlighted technological improvements aimed at a faster response to power fluctuations.
He said, “We are switching from reciprocating engines to turbine technology, which works 6–8 times faster. This means if there is a shock to the system, the power is restored much quicker, reducing shutdowns.”
On the renewable energy mix in Lethem, Minister Indar stated they have a mixture of 2.2 MW from hydropower at Kumaka, one-megawatt of solar energy, and 2.3 MW from the Power Company itself, totalling over five-megawatts.
He also confirmed that rate reductions of up to 30% have already been implemented in some hinterland areas, including Maria, Port Kaituma, and Matthews Ridge, with discussions ongoing for additional communities.
“There are a few places already enjoying a rate cut of about 30 per cent… Discussions are ongoing for other areas tied into solar and hydro”, he stated.
Minister Indar also stated that by emphasising the scope of the programme, this ensures that Guyana’s energy system can meet current and future demands.