Hydropower is the way to go

Dear Editor,

Fluctuating oil prices, political instability and social unrest in some of the major oil producing countries in the world are some of the factors which favour the switch to hydropower in countries where this kind of facility is available. Guyana therefore becomes the ideal location for hydropower with all its waterfalls that caresses the country’s interior.

Because we are dependent on petroleum products for our energy supplies, Guyana becomes susceptible to prices on the world market.

When this happens, we as a nation must turn to alternative means of power which means diversification.

And to say the least, we have the resources in our many waterfalls to actively embark on a diversification programme to meet our energy needs – and in excess, too.

Harnessing our hydroelectric resources will make a big difference in the lives of all the people of this country, and in order to deliver to the people and stand to its promises, the government should exploit every avenue at its disposal to hasten the process of capping our hydro resources.

Over the years, President Bharrat Jagdeo had spoken about a hydroelectric project for Guyana to offset the shocks of rising oil prices on the local economy. The president and all the other players involved must focus their energies and deliver on the promises the government has made to the people to make this country a better place for all.

Up to last year, the country’s fuel import bill stood at about US$350 million. This is unacceptable, and while the government might be looking into matters like these, they need to do more for the development of renewable energy sources which is greatly needed to increase energy security and maintain macroeconomic stability.

The Amaila Falls hydropower project is expected to be built on the Kuribrong River and has the capacity to provide over 140 megawatts of electricity. When this project is realised, it will lead to further development of the forestry sector and the country as a whole.

It is welcome news that the regional authorities have seen the wisdom of having hydropower, and already a local engineering company has commenced work on reactivating the Tumatumari hydroelectric station in Region Eight ( Potaro/ Siparuni) as part of a wider plan for industrial development in the region.

The Tumatumari hydroelectric power station was established in 1953, but after near to 30 years in service to the people, it closed operations in the early 1980s.

Guyana has great potential for the production and delivery of hydropower and we as a growing nation ought to explore all opportunities that might be available for the harnessing of these resources.

In this area, joint venture projects, even with neighbouring countries, should not be ruled out. Once it is done with our people’s welfare in mind and the country’s economic gains at heart, it should be supported by all and sundry. 

Yours truly,

M Khan