GEA, GPL move to curb power demand

Mar 25, 2026 News

…as grid pressures mount

(Kaieteur News) – The Guyana Energy Agency (GEA) and Guyana Power and Light (GPL) have launched a joint Demand Side Management (DSM) programme aimed at reducing electricity consumption, easing pressure on the national grid, and accelerating the shift to renewable energy.

The initiative was unveiled during an inaugural meeting held last Thursday at GPL’s headquarters, bringing together technical teams from both agencies, the GEA said in a press release. According to the GEA demand side management focuses on influencing how and when consumers use electricity, promoting efficiency and conservation instead of relying solely on expanding generation capacity.

The programme is expected to reduce overall consumption, prevent grid overload, improve system stability, and lower emissions from the power sector. Officials from both agencies agreed there is significant potential to improve energy efficiency nationwide while encouraging more responsible electricity use.

Seated at the head table (R to L): Dr. Mahender Sharma, CEO of the GEA, and Mr. Kesh Nandlall, Head of Executive Management of GPL Inc., attended the inaugural meeting with their respective technical teams ahead of the launch of the Demand Side Management Programme.

A key pillar of the programme is the promotion of energy-efficient appliances. Consumers will be encouraged to adopt inverter air conditioners and refrigerators, replace outdated high-consumption devices, and prioritise Energy Star-rated equipment—measures expected to lower both energy use and electricity bills.

The initiative will also target large electricity users through energy audits and assessments, particularly in the business sector. These audits will identify inefficiencies, reduce operating costs, and allow companies to reinvest savings into their operations. Power factor correction measures will also be introduced to improve efficiency and overall grid performance.

Renewable energy adoption forms another major component of the programme. Homeowners and businesses will be encouraged to incorporate energy-efficient building designs, including proper insulation, airtight construction, and efficient windows, alongside renewable options such as solar power.

The programme will also promote grid-tied solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, allowing consumers to generate electricity and feed excess power back into the grid. Under GPL’s net-billing arrangement, users—referred to as “prosumers”—can earn credits or compensation for surplus energy supplied to the system.

“This programme provides a structured approach to developing a sustained and comprehensive demand side management framework,” said Dr. Sharma, Chief Executive Officer of GEA.

Mr. Kesh Nandlall, Head of Executive Management GPL Inc added that the initiative is timely and will play a critical role in driving behavioural change while supporting the transition to renewable energy.

Aligned with Guyana’s Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) 2030, the DSM programme is expected to strengthen the stability and performance of the national grid while positioning the country on a more sustainable energy path. GEA and GPL say work is ongoing to roll out the programme nationally, with a focus on guiding consumers toward more efficient and environmentally responsible energy practices.

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electricity consumption, GEA, GPL, power demand

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