PARAMARIBO – SURINAME: Suriname is moving to diversify its power supply beyond oil and hydropower, with new initiatives in solar and wind energy gaining traction.
Hydropower, anchored by the Afobaka Dam, currently accounts for approximately half of the country’s electricity. While hydropower provides a solid backbone, authorities recognize the need to diversify to ensure energy security and reduce reliance on heavy fuel oil-based generation. Studies suggest that pairing hydropower with wind generation could significantly support the country’s electricity demand in the long run.
Solar projects are already taking shape. Hybrid microgrids are being built in remote districts such as Marowijne and Sipaliwini, bringing power to villages that previously depended on diesel. Staatsolie is also exploring larger-scale developments, including more than 45 MWp of solar capacity in partnership with Trinidad and Tobago’s National Energy Corporation. A floating solar plant on the Afobaka reservoir is under study with the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB).
Wind remains untapped but promising. Feasibility studies show favorable conditions along the coast and strong potential when combined with the country’s flexible hydropower system.
Currently, approximately 48% of Suriname’s electricity comes from renewable hydropower. Under the 2025-2044 Electricity Sector Plan, the country aims to add around 35% more from new renewable sources such as solar, wind, and hybrid microgrids. This would potentially raise the total share of renewables in the electricity mix to over 80% by 2030, gradually reducing the share of electricity generated from heavy fuel oil-based sources.
