Antigua and Barbuda will begin installing more than a thousand solar-powered streetlights and hundreds of home energy systems next week, marking one of the country’s most ambitious steps toward renewable energy to date.
The initiative follows a formal handover ceremony on Wednesday, during which the People’s Republic of China transferred 1,500 solar streetlights and 200 household photovoltaic systems to the government.
The donation strengthens an already longstanding partnership between the nations and builds on previous renewable energy contributions made by China. Officials said this latest effort represents the most extensive collaboration so far, both in scale and strategic planning.
China’s Ambassador to Antigua and Barbuda, Jiang Wei, emphasized that the project reflects the shared commitment of both governments to address climate risks and accelerate sustainable development. She highlighted that Antigua and Barbuda was among the first states in the Eastern Caribbean to formalize diplomatic relations with China more than four decades ago.
“For 42 years our nations have stood together in mutual respect,” the Ambassador said. She added that China’s approach to ecological conservation and green development has shaped its foreign assistance, especially to vulnerable Small Island Developing States. “Climate change affects all humanity, and China is committed to doing its part to support resilience and long-term growth.”
The Ambassador noted that the shipment of solar equipment directly followed agreements made during Prime Minister Gaston Browne’s recent high-level visit to China, describing the project as a tangible outcome of that engagement.
Representing the government at the event, Junior Minister in the Ministry of Health Michael Joseph said the rollout of solar technology signals a renewed national push for energy security, climate resilience, and improved public safety. He described the initiative as a meaningful investment in the country’s future.
“This is a defining moment for Antigua and Barbuda,” Joseph said. “The benefits will be felt in our homes, our communities, and our economy. We are grateful for China’s continued friendship and its practical support of our clean energy goals.”
Installation will be led by Yangde Electric, the Chinese engineering firm responsible for manufacturing the units. Chairman Zhang Aiwen said the company was proud to contribute to Antigua and Barbuda’s green transition. He explained that the equipment was built to withstand tropical conditions and that technical personnel will train APUA and local workers to install and maintain the systems.
“The true value of cooperation lies not only in the equipment but in the knowledge exchange and the long-term partnership it strengthens,” Zhang said.
Once installed, the new units are expected to reduce pressure on the electricity grid, increase nighttime visibility and safety on public roads, and bring added reliability to households receiving solar PV systems. Officials say the move aligns with Antigua and Barbuda’s broader climate adaptation strategies, particularly as island nations confront rising energy costs and increasingly severe weather patterns.
Both governments reaffirmed their commitment to continued collaboration in sustainable development. As Zhang put it, the partnership “will shine as steadily as the Caribbean sun.”
I hope they can do something to prevent persons from stealing the batteries as they have done to those previously installed.