Georgetown: The Guyana Water Incorporated recently deployed two engineers to Arakaka, Region 1 to address the lack of water supply there caused by cloud cover over the photovoltaic system in the community.
The photovoltaic system, also known as a solar PV power system, is designed to supply usable solar power, which ensures the functioning of a water system
However, due to a prolonged rainy season in the region, the system, which requires a constant supply of energy from the sun, has not been functioning efficiently.
GWI’s Hinterland Engineer, Mr. Cleon French and Solar Consultant, Mr. Aubrey Mark, visited the area to install a control box which would allow for an automatic switch from solar to electric energy when a generator is turned on. The solar power is expected to last from 9:00 – 15:00 hrs, while the electricity is estimated to last for 12 hours during the night to ensure that the pump is running throughout the night.
GWI is also exploring the possibility of increasing the water storage capacity and drilling a new well for the Arakaka village in 2017.
Meanwhile, GWI will soon be sending a contactor to the village of Karrau, Region 7 to install a PV system, erect a trestle and place tanks at strategic locations to connect to the pipes that were recently laid by villagers.
These projects form part of GWI’s mandate of ensuring equal access to water for citizens on the coast and in riverain areas.
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