Aurora Gold Mine Inc., which operated for several years without connection to the national energy grid now has the largest single solar facility in Guyana.
At its remote Region Seven location, the company on Tuesday formally commissioned the massive solar power system, signaling a decisive shift from diesel dependence to large-scale renewable energy.
What began as a modest 3-megawatt installation in 2023 has rapidly evolved into a combined solar capacity of 49.4 megawatts, supported by extensive battery storage, making it the largest non-state-owned photovoltaic system in Guyana.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips described the project as a “landmark investment” that transforms how energy is produced and consumed in one of Guyana’s most remote industrial operations.
“This level of generation reduces reliance on diesel fuel and results in significant emissions reductions,” he said, noting that the facility will cut roughly 46,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide annually while strengthening environmental performance.
The Aurora mine — located deep in the interior and historically powered entirely by diesel — now operates a hybrid system that balances solar generation and battery storage in real time, ensuring a stable and reliable power supply.
For years, Aurora functioned completely off-grid, relying on fuel transported over long distances — a costly and logistically challenging model.
That reality began to change in 2023.
AGM’s phased approach started with a 3 MW solar system, expanded to 15 MW, and has now culminated in a 30 MW Phase II build-out, bringing total installed capacity to nearly 50 MW.
“This project reflects disciplined planning, strong partnerships, and a shared commitment to national progress,” said AGM Inc.’s General Manager.
“Today is more than a commissioning — it is a clear statement of direction.”
He emphasized that the system, fully integrated as of March 2026, includes large-scale battery storage — enabling the mine to significantly reduce diesel consumption by an estimated 18 million litres annually.
AGM reported that in 2025 alone, it:
- Produced over 145,000 ounces of gold
- Contributed more than US$111 million in taxes and royalties
- Injected over US$360 million into the local economy
“These are not projections — these are real contributions,” the General Manager said.
At the same time, the company says the solar system will cut emissions by more than 47,000 tonnes per year, while supplying a significant portion of the mine’s energy needs.
Beyond energy and economics, the project has delivered tangible benefits for Guyanese workers.
Approximately 100 local jobs were created during construction, with workers gaining hands-on experience in renewable energy systems, battery storage, and microgrid management.
“These are skills that will remain relevant as Guyana continues to expand its use of renewable energy,” the Prime Minister noted.
AGM also highlighted that 90% of its workforce is Guyanese, with over 800 direct employees and more than 1,400 engaged through contractors.
“Behind every number is a family, a skill being developed, and a future being built,” the General Manager said.
Chinese Ambassador to Guyana Yang Yang described the project as a significant step in advancing sustainable development through international cooperation.
“Modern mining must move away from high consumption and high emissions,” he said.
“A modern mine should create not only economic value, but also environmental and social value.”
He added that the project demonstrates how clean energy can replace diesel-heavy systems in remote operations — improving both stability and environmental performance.
The Aurora solar project is closely aligned with Guyana’s Low Carbon Development Strategy 2030, which seeks to expand renewable energy while maintaining economic growth.
Prime Minister Phillips pointed to similar solar initiatives across the country, including utility-scale projects, grid upgrades, and battery storage investments.
“This project shows how renewable energy can be integrated into industrial operations — even in remote areas,” he said.
AGM says the work is far from complete.
The company is already advancing additional solar and battery systems at Buckhall Port to reduce emissions across its logistics chain, while continuing to expand its renewable footprint at Aurora.
“We are not speaking in general terms — we are delivering measurable outcomes,” the General Manager stated.
“At AGM Inc., we are guided by one principle: mining for a better society.”
The post Aurora Gold Mine commissions Guyana’s largest solar facility in Region Seven appeared first on News Room Guyana.
