Recently, Guyana participated in the Third General Assembly of the International Solar Alliance (ISA). Ministers and representatives from over 53 Member countries gathered virtually from October 14 to16, 2020, to map the way forward for energy transition, security, and universal energy access.
During the Regional Ministerial for Latin America and Caribbean Region (LAC) segment of the Assembly, Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, the Honourable Deodat Indar, reiterated the Government of Guyana’s commitment towards achieving a low carbon economy and advancing the transition to renewable energy development. Minister Indar also took the opportunity to commend the ISA for its efforts to advance solar power in light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
“As we look to a post-COVID-19 era, renewable energy development will support a low-carbon energy supply,” Minister Indar stated. “This is an essential factor for fostering economic growth, job creation, energy security, and poverty alleviation while combating climate change,” he added.
Further, the Minister noted that with adequate and timely technical and financial support, Guyana will be able to take advantage of the falling levelized cost of electricity produced from solar energy technology to address the need for increased and stable energy supply, advance renewable energy integration, and promote sustainable energy solutions.
Planned projects to realize this energy transition include the development of utility-scale solar PV farms, mini and micro solar PV grids for Hinterland communities, and solar PV home systems for households.
During the General Assembly, Guyana and Cuba became the Vice Presidents of the International Solar Alliance Standing Committee for the Latin America and Caribbean Region for the 2020-2022 period.
Guyana was also represented by Chief Executive Officer of the Guyana Energy Agency (GEA), Dr. Mahender Sharma, and Charge’ d’ Affaires, High Commission of Guyana, New Delhi, Ms. Esther Gittens.
In 2018, Guyana and India signed MOUs on Renewable Energy and Cultural Cooperation. Guyana also signed and ratified the International Solar Alliance, an initiative of India to promote the use of solar energy.
