Suriname CC INDIGENOUS Alternative energy for the communities of Gonsutu

The intention of this project is to demonstrate the utilization of solar energy as alternative to the traditional use of fossil energy.The project is located east of Suriname in the district of Sipaliwini, a district primarily inhabited by indigenous and maroon tribes. More than 90% of Suriname land area is forest , storing carbon stocks, thus contributing to combat climate change. Electricity supply for this remote area is primarily dealt with by the Government in the form of diesel generator sets and fuel supply. Despite government efforts to provide electricity for all, to do so for the more than 200 villages in the interior of Suriname remains a huge challenge. Budgetary constraints also affect the Government's ability to apply (the more costly) low carbon emission options like solar power in the interior.

With a full size grant of GEF SGP of USD 50,000, the CBO began to implement the project in 2008. The overall goal: establish a solar energy system in the village, to generate electricity for the local school building and other prime facilities in Gonsutu. Electrical posts were set up and cables were connected.