Hampshire Solar Farm Inaugurated in Region Six
On Friday, November 21, 2025, Guyana officially commissioned the 3-megawatt peak (MWp) Hampshire Solar Farm in Hampshire, Corentyne, Region Six. The commissioning ceremony was led by Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret'd) Mark Phillips, who emphasized the project's role in Guyana's commitment to a cleaner energy future. This facility represents a crucial advancement in the nation's renewable energy transition, aligning with its ambitious Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) 2030.
Technical Specifications and Environmental Impact
The Hampshire Solar Farm, a US$6 million project, is equipped with 4,928 solar modules and eight PV inverters, integrated with advanced mounting structures. It features a new 13.8kV spur connecting to the Canefield F3 distribution feeder, ensuring efficient integration into the Demerara-Berbice Interconnected System (DBIS). Designed for resilience, the system can withstand winds of up to 244 km/h.
Once fully operational, the solar farm is projected to generate approximately 4,800 megawatt-hours (MWh) of energy annually. This output is expected to result in an estimated GY$210 million in avoided fossil fuel costs and a reduction of nearly 3,200 tonnes of CO₂ emissions each year, significantly contributing to Guyana's environmental objectives.
Part of a Broader National Strategy
The Hampshire Solar Farm is a key component of the Guyana Utility-Scale Solar Photovoltaic (GUYSOL) Programme. This extensive initiative, valued at US$83.8 million, is financed through Guyana's earnings under the Guyana–Norway partnership and administered by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB). The GUYSOL Programme aims to deliver a total of 33 MWp of solar capacity across Regions Two, Five, Six, and Ten, with 10 MWp specifically allocated to Regions Five and Six.
Prime Minister Phillips highlighted that this commissioning follows the recent inauguration of the 5MWp Onderneeming Solar Farm on the Essequibo Coast, underscoring the government's push to expand renewable generation nationwide. The projects are integral to diversifying Guyana's energy mix and reducing its reliance on imported fossil fuels, a core objective of the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) 2030.
Economic and Social Development
Beyond its environmental benefits, the GUYSOL Programme fosters economic and social development. It supports the growth of clean energy skills and provides opportunities for emerging professionals. To date, 31 women, including 14 from Berbice, have received training and employment in solar installation through GUYSOL's 'Women in Solar' initiative. The program also includes an energy apprenticeship track, ensuring inclusivity by involving persons with disabilities.
Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh, described the project as 'historic,' noting its importance in advancing Guyana's clean energy transition, creating local jobs, and strengthening international and regional partnerships.
Commitment to Climate Action
During the commissioning, Prime Minister Phillips reaffirmed Guyana's leadership in climate action, stating, 'This commissioning sends a clear signal not only to our people, but to the Latin American and Caribbean region and the rest of the world. It says that Guyana is serious about transitioning to cleaner energy sources. We view this transition as an urgent imperative.' He also called for 'fair, predictable, accessible and quicker financing' to help developing nations scale renewable energy projects.
8 Comments
Muchacha
While this solar farm is a positive step towards cleaner energy and job creation, its relatively small scale means a much larger and faster rollout is needed to truly impact national energy needs. It's a good start, but more ambition is required.
Bella Ciao
Great move towards energy independence!
Comandante
This project clearly demonstrates Guyana's intent to transition to cleaner energy, which is important for its future and international standing. But we need to see this replicated at a much grander scale and pace to make a significant difference in reducing overall fossil fuel dependence.
Bermudez
Another PR stunt while oil production soars.
Africa
Finally, significant steps for climate action.
Habibi
3MW is a drop in the ocean, barely makes a dent.
Muchacho
This is what real progress looks like.
Coccinella
It's commendable that Guyana is investing in solar power and training women in the sector, which is a great social benefit. However, the country's massive oil and gas expansion still overshadows these renewable efforts, creating a complex environmental picture.