Chenapou Residents to Benefit from Reliable Electricity Under Hinterland Electrification Project
Nearly 200 households in Chenapou, Region Eight, are set to gain reliable access to electricity as part of the government’s ongoing hinterland electrification initiative.
Each household has been equipped with a 160-watt solar panel system capable of powering two 9-watt LED lamps, a stand fan, and charging portable electronic devices.
The distribution exercise was led by Minister of Amerindian Affairs, Pauline Sukhai, who addressed residents on Friday.
She acknowledged the logistical challenges that had previously delayed the delivery of the solar panels to the village. Minister Sukhai assured residents that they were not alone in facing such delays, noting that an additional 7,000 solar panels had been ordered to address shortages, as the initial allocation of $30,000 was insufficient.
The newly acquired panels are specifically earmarked for remote and riverine communities, reflecting the government’s commitment to providing equitable access to electricity. As of December 2023, a total of 26,398 solar panels had been distributed to households nationwide. Minister Sukhai emphasized the government’s determination to complete the program by the end of this year, enabling thousands more households to enjoy reliable electricity in line with the administration’s 2020-2025 manifesto.
Beyond electrification, the minister highlighted significant government efforts to expand secondary education in Region Eight. She revealed plans for the construction of three new secondary schools in the region, aiming to improve educational access for hinterland communities.
The distribution event included a demonstration of the solar systems by a representative from the Guyana Energy Agency (GEA), who explained their operation to residents.
Vice Chairperson of the National Toshaos Council (NTC), Toshao Sonia Latchman, Project Coordinator Besham Ramsaywack, and Management Development Officer Antonio George also accompanied the minister during the exercise.
According to the GEA, the completion of the solar panel distribution program will result in a total of 30,000 systems installed across the country, collectively producing 4.8 MW of power in the administrative regions. This initiative has been made possible through funding secured via a US$7.2 million Line of Credit agreement with India.
