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The government of Guyana has introduced a new net billing scheme aimed at promoting the adoption of renewable energy among residential and commercial users. The program applies to grid-tied solar photovoltaic (PV) systems with a capacity of up to 100 kW and will be jointly implemented by the Guyana Energy Agency (GEA) and utility Guyana Power and Light Inc. (GPL Inc.) through standardized offer contracts (SOCs).

According to an official statement, the scheme enables customers to earn credits for surplus electricity exported to the grid. “The net-billing program allows customers with grid-tied solar PV systems to earn credits for any excess electricity that is fed from their PV system back into the utility grid,” the government said. “It provides an additional financial incentive for renewable energy adoption, while helping consumers manage electricity costs and contribute to living sustainably.”

These energy credits will be stored in an Energy Credits Bank. At the end of each 12-month billing cycle, unused credits will be paid out at 90% of the prevailing tariff rate, after deducting any outstanding payments owed to GPL.

While the program primarily targets systems under 100 kW, larger systems may also qualify upon approval. Eligibility for these will be assessed based on the customer’s maximum demand and a formal grid connection request.

This initiative follows the recent approval of a GYD 885 million (US$4.2 million) investment by Guyana’s Cabinet of Ministers to retrofit solar systems in 21 Amerindian villages.

Earlier this year, the GEA also launched a tender for solar installation companies to transport, deploy, and commission solar arrays paired with battery storage at selected public buildings across four regions in the country.