Suriname’s Energy Sector: Aligning Transition with Equity and Resilience
By Sorayadebie Jhagroe
Suriname is navigating a challenging phase in its energy transition. As of 2024, approximately 48% of the country’s electricity was generated from hydropower (754.5 GWh), with the remainder supplied by heavy fuel oil-based power plants. This energy mix highlights both opportunity and urgency: while Suriname benefits from abundant natural resources, it remains significantly reliant on fossil fuels and centralized systems.
The national grid of the electricity sector in Suriname is segmented into two main systems: EPAR and ENIC, along with a series of smaller interior grids. EPAR is operated by state-owned utilities N.V. Energiebedrijven Suriname (N.V. EBS) and Staatsolie Power Company of Suriname (SPCS), which collectively manage over 330 MW of installed capacity, and which supply electricity to more than 150,000 customers.
Despite progress, Suriname is navigating its institutional and operational capacity in the reforms. Progress is being made, and Suriname launched its Electricity Sector Plan (ESP) 2025–2044 on May 15th, 2025. The NDC sets an unconditional target to achieve over 35% renewable energy in the national energy mix by 2030. The ESP is to guide the sustainable development of the power sector and ensure a reliable supply of electricity over a 20-year long-term strategic view, with a five-year action plan. The plan marks a shift in the country’s energy future, balancing availability, affordability, and environmental sustainability.
These pillars are embedded in the Electricity Act 2016. As a statutory requirement, the ESP is a critical element of the reform of Suriname’s electricity sector’s governance framework, complementing the establishment of the Energy Authority of Suriname (EAS), the implementation of cost-reflective yet affordable tariffs, and the strategic reorganization of the sector. (View the full plan here: https://eas.sr/electricity-sector-plan/.)
As Suriname anticipates off-shore oil production in 2028, careful policy planning and equitable infrastructure will be essential. Revenues must be strategically reinvested into renewable infrastructure, energy access for underserved regions, and capacity building at all levels. The national energy vision is also backed by a broader framework. In February 2025, Suriname officially launched its Green Development Strategy 2025 – 2050, which is a long-term roadmap for sustainable development. The four pillars of this strategy — (1) sustainable economic diversification and growth, (2) environmental protection and climate resilience, (3) social inclusivity and equity, and (4) good governance and institutional strengthening — are designed to work in harmony.
Suriname’s energy journey is a reminder that while an energy transition is technical, it is also deeply human. With the right partnerships and vision, Suriname can serve as a model!