GWI MOVES TO IMPROVED CARBON FOOTPRINT OF WATER SUPPLY THROUGH THE USE OF RENEWABLE ENERGY SOURCES

The Government of Guyana through the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) has embarked on the use of renewable energy technology through the installation of a 300 kWp solar photovoltaic system (solar PV) to power GWI’s Port Mourant Water Treatment Plant.  

The investment was made possible through the assistance of the Caribbean Community Climate Change Centre (CCCCC) with grant funds from the European Union (EU) under the EU-GCCA+ programme being implemented in CARIFORUM. 

GWI Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Shaik Baksh inspected works that are currently ongoing at the Port Mourant facility to bring the PV system on stream to benefit the water treatment process to that area. He said that “the installation of the solar PVs at the Port Mourant Water Treatment Facility is a significant step towards sustainable development for Guyana Water Inc and the Government of Guyana. This project underscores our commitment to adopting renewable energy solutions that not only reduce our carbon footprint but also ensure a more reliable and cost-effective service for our customers. By harnessing solar power, we are building resilience in our operations while contributing to the national agenda of cleaner, greener energy sources for the future.”  

Through this collaboration, GWI will be able to reduce the carbon footprint of water supply through alternative (renewable-solar) energy sources, increase the reliability in water supply via redundancy in power supply of the national grid and PV systems. Furthermore, it will build the capacity of the water utility staff in energy management & efficiency to ensure the sustainability of the action. 

The facility is likely to be commissioned in December 2024, benefitting residents served by the Port Mourant Water Treatment Plant. GWI remains committed to ensuring that its carbon footprint is lowered contributing ultimately to the LCDS 2030 agenda.