PARAMARIBO — The solar panel plant of the ‘Solar Energy Project’ in the village of Goejaba was put into use in a festive manner. President Jennifer Simons officially entered into force on Sunday with the push of a button. With the exception of three villages, this plant provides 1×24 hour power to a large part of the Upper Suriname area. The head of state described the solar energy program as very important. President Simons emphasized that this project must also be implemented in other parts of Suriname.
The head of state pointed out the advantage of the solar energy system against the background of the current situation in the Middle East, which makes oil more expensive worldwide. According to the president, this project will also bring benefits. She was referring to the development of agriculture, tourism and education, among other things. “That is why it is important that there is power 1×24 hours.”
“It means education, healthcare, security and the economy getting a chance to move forward”
Simons urged the villagers to ensure that the project is maintained. “The entire interior must be able to live in a human way and that is why this is important,” said President Simons.
Savings and benefits
Natural Resources (NH) Minister David Abiamofo recalled the previous electricity projects – through diesel generators in Goejaba – which unfortunately failed. Ultimately we managed to get this project off the ground. According to the minister, this is a major saving for the government. “Power has its advantage. With today’s delivery, we are one step closer to what we want in Suriname. Namely that all Surinamese people have 1×24 hours of electricity per day. That is the government’s policy and that is what we are going for,” said the government official.
With the latter, Abiamofo referred to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. One of the objectives is to have affordable and clean energy for everyone worldwide by 2030. The minister is pleased with the head of state’s attention to the domestic sector. He also urged the local community to handle this project responsibly. The minister pointed out economical consumption, as it concerns solar energy.
District Commissioner of Upper Suriname, Humphry Jeroe, spoke of an important milestone. “Your presence here, President, is of great significance for Upper Suriname, but today especially for Goejaba. It shows that the government is not only thinking about the city, but also about the inhabitants of the interior.” The official emphasized that it is about more than just electricity. “It means education, healthcare, security and the economy getting a chance to move forward.” He also reminded the community of its responsibility. “Let this project not only bring light, but unity and let it bring a blessing to Upper Suriname.”
The Suriname Villages Micro-grid Solar Project phase 2 was implemented by Power Construction Corporation of China (PowerChina) and Sinohydro Corporation Limited. These two Chinese state-owned companies specialize in energy infrastructure. According to Shen Dan, representative of Sinohydro Corporation Limited, the construction encountered many challenges. Ultimately, these were overcome through cooperation. She thanked the government for its consistency and support.
