Guyana adds 22 skilled technicians to support renewable energy transition

Twenty-two individuals have joined Guyana’s pool of skilled renewable energy technicians after completing specialised training in Electric Vehicle Systems and Solar PV Charging Infrastructure.

The initiative was implemented through a partnership among the Board of Industrial Training (BIT), the Guyana Energy Agency (GEA), the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), and the United Nations.

Following the graduation ceremony at the Windjammer International Hotel in Kitty, Georgetown, on Friday, one of the graduates, Marion Glasgow expressed how elated he is to have completed the “terrific” session.

He said that due to his love for electric vehicles, and after seeing the advertisement for the programme, he hopped on board with the training. According to him, the skills he gained will now be used in his professional space.

Meanwhile, Ayesha Bovell said the programme provided an opportunity to expand her understanding of vehicle electrical systems, an area she had not previously explored despite being a driver.

She noted that the knowledge gained will also benefit her professional career as a Science teacher, allowing her to better educate students about renewable energy technologies, including solar panels.

Krishan Kempadoo also spoke with DPI, stating that the training was educational and informative. He believes that Guyana is advancing in the energy sector, and electric vehicles are in demand than petroleum vehicles because of their many advantages.

Similarly, Bobby Samuels said he was passionate about his training and is heavily interested in technology.

With the country transitioning to the gas-to-energy project, Samuel believes there will be more solar power across the region, which will accommodate electric vehicles.

Delivering remarks on behalf of Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, Chief Executive Officer of the Guyana Energy Agency, Dr Mahender Sharma, highlighted the government’s commitment to building a skilled workforce to support Guyana’s transition to renewable energy and electric mobility.

He noted that Guyana continues to invest heavily in renewable energy, energy efficiency and climate resilience while creating an enabling environment for the adoption of electric vehicles and clean technologies.

“This training initiative complements those efforts by ensuring we develop the local expertise needed to install, operate, and maintain technologies that will power the future,” Dr Sharma said.

He stated that the programme comes at a critical time as demand for renewable energy technologies and electric vehicles continues to grow.

Dr Sharma also highlighted the government’s ongoing grid-connected solar programme and encouraged graduates to participate in installing solar-powered EV charging stations being established countrywide.

In addition, United Nations Development Programme Resident Coordinator Katy Thompson reaffirmed the UN’s commitment to supporting Guyana’s sustainable development and energy transition goals.

She noted that the long-term success of the transition will depend on technicians, trainers, educators, innovators and leaders who can sustain and expand the impact of renewable energy initiatives.

The programme also produced two comprehensive training curricula covering Electric Vehicle Systems and Solar PV-Powered EV Charging Infrastructure.

The books were handed over to BIT and will support future technical and vocational education programmes nationwide.