Gas-to-Energy Project to Cut Business Costs by 50%

The $759 million Gas-to-Energy (GtE) project is set to transform Guyana’s energy sector by halving electricity costs for businesses. Expected to be operational in 2025, the initiative will support industries like agriculture, poultry storage, and manufacturing by slashing operational expenses. Minister Deodat Indar emphasized that lower tariffs will make previously unviable ventures profitable, driving economic growth. The project, including a 300MW power plant and upgraded distribution systems, represents a cornerstone for sustainable business development in Guyana.

Quarry Production Expands to Meet Construction Demands

Guyana's quarry sector has surged, growing from six operational sites in 2020 to 16 in 2024, with three more expected in 2025. Stone production reached 3.3 million tonnes in 2024, and sand production exceeded 12 million tonnes. This growth aligns with the government’s infrastructure projects, including its ambitious housing plans. With demand continuing to rise, the Ministry of Natural Resources and the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission aim to ensure adequate supply, crucial for stabilizing material costs and sustaining the booming construction industry.

Business Opportunities Based On Today’s Developments

Small Enterprises (SEs)

1. LPG Regulator Testing and Installation Services

   • Opportunity: With the GNBS initiative to train individuals in testing LPG regulators and address safety concerns, small enterprises can offer specialized regulator testing and replacement services for households and businesses.

   • Notes: Training from GNBS will ensure credibility. Collaborate with gas distributors like Massy Gas to create service bundles that include regulator testing and safety education.

2. Vegetable and Fruit Farming with Sustainable Practices

   • Opportunity: Cash crop and fruit farmers in Black Bush Polder (BBP) face challenges from nearby rice farming. SEs can capitalize by offering organic produce grown using controlled environments such as greenhouses or protective netting.

   • Notes: Target premium markets with “chemical-free” branding. Seek government support to access funding or incentives for sustainable agriculture initiatives.

3. Safety and Health Training Consultancy

   • Opportunity: The mining school’s partnership with GMIN Ventures highlights the increasing importance of safety training in sectors like mining and energy. Small enterprises can offer affordable Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) training to workers in rural areas.

   • Notes: Begin by partnering with educational institutions and local governments to build credibility.

Medium Enterprises (MEs)

1. Construction Material Transportation and Logistics

   • Opportunity: With the dramatic increase in quarry and sand production, logistics companies can offer transportation services to construction sites across Guyana.

   • Notes: Focus on affordable and reliable supply chain solutions for small contractors and builders who lack large-scale delivery options.

2. Telemedicine Support Infrastructure

   • Opportunity: Provide hardware (internet-enabled devices) or software solutions tailored for telemedicine sites in hinterland regions. This includes supplying solar-powered routers, portable diagnostic tools, and tech support services.

   • Notes: Partner with the Ministry of Health to design products meeting their specifications. After-sales services will build long-term client relationships.

3. Modular Farming Systems

   • Opportunity: The agricultural challenges in BBP open opportunities for modular farming systems such as hydroponics or aquaponics. MEs can design and supply these systems to farmers transitioning away from traditional practices.

   • Notes: Highlight ROI benefits to secure initial sales. Offer installation, training, and maintenance packages to attract customers.

Large Enterprises (LEs)

1. Gas-to-Energy Project Partnerships

   • Opportunity: The transformative Gas-to-Energy project is reducing operational energy costs, paving the way for energy-intensive industries like manufacturing, agricultural processing, and warehousing. Large enterprises can invest in facilities reliant on consistent and affordable power.

   • Notes: Focus on industries like poultry processing, warehousing, or cold storage facilities. Align with government policies to secure tax incentives or support.

2. Mining Sector Equipment and Infrastructure Development

   • Opportunity: With GMIN Ventures’ push to train mining professionals and expand mining operations, large enterprises can invest in supplying advanced mining equipment or developing infrastructure such as roads to remote mining sites.

   • Notes: Partner with the government to offset upfront costs through tax exemptions or duty-free imports on machinery.

3. Export-Driven Agro-Processing Facilities

   • Opportunity: Given Guyana’s agricultural production challenges and high export potential, LEs can establish agro-processing facilities to create value-added products such as canned fruits, juices, or organic fertilizers.

   • Notes: Focus on products for export markets, leveraging Guyana’s duty-free agreements with CARICOM and other trade partners.

General Observations

• Partnership Opportunities: Across all enterprise levels, partnerships with government initiatives, training programs, and international stakeholders will strengthen market entry and reduce costs.

• Environmental and Social Focus: Sustainability-focused ventures (like agro-processing or green energy logistics) will likely gain favor with both consumers and policymakers.

• Technology Integration: Digital and tech solutions, especially in telemedicine, agriculture, and mining, offer scalable opportunities that align with national priorities for modernizing industries.

Side Hustle Ideas Based On Today’s Developments

1. Mobile LPG Regulator Testing and Replacement Service

   • Opportunity: With the GNBS highlighting safety concerns around LPG tank regulators, a mobile service to test, repair, or replace faulty regulators could meet a critical need in homes and small businesses.

   • How it Works: Offer door-to-door safety inspections using portable equipment, with regulator replacements available on-site.

   • Scalability: Start small and expand by partnering with LPG suppliers or local hardware stores for discounted equipment.

2. Home-Based Food Preservation and Dehydration Business

   • Opportunity: With increasing demand for quality food products, leverage dehydrators to produce preserved items like fruits, vegetables, or herbs.

   • How it Works: Source affordable produce from local farmers and create value-added products for sale in local markets or online platforms.

   • Scalability: Begin with low-cost, high-demand products, then expand into regional exports, riding on Guyana’s growing reputation for premium agricultural goods.

3. Affordable Co-Working Spaces in Regional Areas

   • Opportunity: With the growth in business activity and remote work, regional areas like Black Bush Polder or Lethem lack modern, accessible co-working spaces.

   • How it Works: Convert unused rooms or buildings into basic shared workspaces with internet access and desk rentals.

   • Scalability: As demand grows, enhance offerings with small business resources like printing, workshops, and mentorship sessions.

These side hustles align with Guyana’s expanding economy and cater to gaps in safety, food innovation, and professional services while allowing individuals to start small and grow sustainably.