The move to develop the Amaila Falls hydropower project in Guyana started with four companies submitting bids to the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board in December 2023. The project, aiming to deliver 165 megawatts (MW) of clean energy, is a strategic initiative for Guyana as it grapples with surging electricity demands and climate mitigation obligations.
The government is seeking a competent partner, focusing on criteria such as timeframes, economic viability, and the credibility and expertise of partners. The RFP outlines a Build-Own-Operate-Transfer (BOOT) model, requiring proposals for a hydro dam with at least 165 MW capacity at the remote Amaila waterfall in Region Eight.
Among the bidders is Lindsayca CH4 Guyana Inc., notable for its role in developing the integrated plant facility for the Gas-to-Energy project in Wales on the West Bank of Demerara. This involvement positions Lindsayca as a significant contender, bringing some local experience.
A bid was submitted by Rialma, a Brazilian group operating across energy, agriculture, and mining sectors. Rialma’s experience in the energy domain, particularly in small hydroelectric power plants, underscores its technical capability in hydro project development.
China International Water and Electric Corporation (CWE), a subsidiary of China Three Gorges Corporation, presented a bid. CWE has a global footprint as a construction and engineering consulting firm, particularly in large-scale projects.
Another bid was submitted by a joint venture comprising OEC, GE Vernova, and Worley from Australia. This collaboration brings together diverse international expertise in engineering and construction.
Guyana’s state electricity provider – Guyana Power and Light Inc. (GPL) – reported a peak demand of 182 megawatts on the country’s central grid in 2023, up from 154 megawatts in 2022. The utility company attributed this rise primarily to the increased use of air conditioning and fans due to rising temperatures and the boom in the construction and hospitality sectors.
The Amaila Falls project, scheduled for completion by 2027, is set to play a critical role alongside the Gas-to-Energy project, raising Guyana’s power generation capacity. These initiatives are part of the government’s broader plan to address the growing energy demand, reduce consumer costs, and transition from heavy fuel oil to more sustainable energy sources.
