How to start a solar power plant in Suriname?

The Electricity Act 2016 in Suriname states that utility scale solar plants shall be introduced by organizing a tender process and by signing Power Purchase Agreement between the energy company and the owner of the solar or wind power plants.

Will solar energy be cheaper in Suriname?

The price of solar energy has been dropping dramatically during last 20 years and the projections suggest that it will maintain that trend in the coming years. In a near future, solar energy in Suriname will be cheaper than the electricity coming conventional fossil fuel plants.

Why is solar energy important in Suriname?

Additionally, in Suriname there is a good complementarity of the hydro and solar resources. During dry season, when the level of the dam is low, the solar radiation is higher. In this period, solar energy can help reduce the risk of energy deficit.

Will Suriname build a floating solar farm?

Suriname is set to build a floating solar farm on the ocean around its coastline, as the Caribbean’s third-biggest oil producer looks to harness renewable energy resources. The solar program is being funded by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB). Local reports suggest that the bank has even agreed to provide technical assistance.

How much does electricity cost in Suriname?

In Suriname, according to the national electrical utility, the actual total cost of electricity is the main power system is 13 US cents/kWh, including generation, transmission, operational and maintenance costs. In 2018, only the cost of fuels and lubricants used in the Heavy Fuel Oil power plant, was 8 US$ cents/kWh.

Will a solar project help Suriname manage water resources?

The solar project will also help the country ease the task of managing water resources, say analysts. That is because the reservoir often runs low on water as electricity demand peaks in the country. In recent years, Suriname is increasingly using fossil fuels to generate electricity.