The Department of Environment announces the start of one of Antigua and Barbuda’s most ambitious renewable-energy programmes. Beginning next week, the Government will deploy 1,500 solar-powered streetlights and 200 solar photovoltaic (PV) home energy systems throughout the country, representing a major step toward climate resilience, cleaner energy, and enhanced community safety.
This national rollout follows a formal signing and handover ceremony held on Wednesday, reaffirming 42 years of strong diplomatic relations between Antigua and Barbuda and the People’s Republic of China.
China’s Ambassador, H.E. Jiang Wei, emphasized the shared commitment to environmental protection and climate resilience. She noted that the donation is a direct outcome of a memorandum of understanding signed during Prime Minister Gaston Browne’s most recent visit to China.
Junior Minister Senator Michael Joseph, speaking on behalf of the Government, said the initiative is transformative.
“This is a tangible investment in sustainability, resilience, and public safety,” he noted. “The installation of these solar units will ease pressure on the national grid, increase nighttime security, and help accelerate Antigua and Barbuda’s transition to cleaner and more reliable energy sources.”
In addition to installation, the project includes a strong capacity-building component. Antiguans and Barbudans are already being trained to install, commission, and maintain the new solar systems. This includes APUA technicians, community electricians, and young professionals interested in renewable-energy fields.
Technical training is being conducted by Yangde Electric, the Chinese engineering firm overseeing the installation process. Their experts will remain on the ground to ensure local teams master the skills required for long-term operation and maintenance.
Director Diann Black-Layne welcomed the programme, emphasizing its long-term national impact.
“This initiative is not just about equipment—it is about empowerment,” Director Black-Layne stated. “By training our local technicians, we are ensuring that Antigua and Barbuda builds the internal expertise needed to manage, maintain, and expand renewable-energy technologies for generations to come. This is a true investment in our people, our resilience, and our future.”
The Government expresses sincere appreciation to the People’s Republic of China for its ongoing friendship and support in advancing Antigua and Barbuda’s green development agenda.