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.

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.

Why should you choose a hydroelectric dam in Suriname?

Hydroelectric dams are ones of the most flexible units that can be adjusted to handle with fluctuations on the demand, but also in the generation. In this regard, Suriname has a great advantage compared with other countries in the Caribbean.

Where can solar energy be implemented?

Other feasible areas for implementing solar energy are the 135 villages located in the interior of Suriname (Hinterland) where solar solutions can provide 24 hours of clean, reliable and affordable energy. Most of them are receiving 4 to 6 hours electricity by using diesel generators, which is an expensive and polluting solution.