Guyana implements power conservation to manage high El Niño demand

The Government of Guyana has implemented electricity conservation measures to manage a surge in power demand caused by extreme heat from El Niño and a growing customer base. Officials reported that the Demerara-Berbice Interconnected System (DBIS) reached a peak demand of 242.46 megawatts (MW), significantly higher than the 221 MW recorded last year.

To stabilize the grid, the government is requesting that large industrial consumers operate during off-peak periods. Some large customers on the East Bank and in Berbice have already been asked to temporarily disconnect from the grid during peak hours. Additionally, all government agencies and recreational facilities have been instructed to reduce electricity use, such as switching off lights and air conditioning after working hours or when not in use.

To meet the projected peak demand of 266 MW through October, authorities are working to increase total generation capacity. Current reliable generation stands at 256 MW, with plans to reach 280 MW by the end of August through the addition of new engines at Garden of Eden and power from a power ship. Prime Minister Mark Phillips stated that once the 280 MW target is achieved, electricity rationing should not be necessary.