Antigua and Barbuda is set to undergo one of its largest renewable energy upgrades to date, with the installation of 1,500 solar-powered street lights and 200 solar photovoltaic (PV) household energy systems beginning next week.

The initiative follows an official signing and handover ceremony on Wednesday morning, marking another milestone in the long-standing partnership between Antigua and Barbuda and the People’s Republic of China.

This is not China’s first major solar contribution to the country, but officials say this year’s donation represents a significant expansion—both in scale and in the depth of cooperation between the two nations.

China Highlights 42 Years of Friendship and Green Partnership

China’s Ambassador to Antigua and Barbuda, H.E. Jiang Wei, described the donation as part of a shared global responsibility to confront climate change and achieve sustainable development. He noted that Antigua and Barbuda was one of the first Eastern Caribbean nations to establish diplomatic ties with the People’s Republic of China.

“For 42 years, our countries have respected and supported each other,” Ambassador Jiang said. “Our partnership is a model of equality and win-win cooperation between states of different sizes.”

She emphasized China’s commitment to ecological protection, green development, and global climate leadership—principles rooted in President Xi Jinping’s philosophy of environmental stewardship.

“Climate change is a challenge for all humanity,” she said. “Small Island Developing States like Antigua and Barbuda face unique vulnerabilities, and China is willing to provide assistance within our capacity to support both resilience and development.”

The Ambassador confirmed that the solar equipment being installed is the direct outcome of a carefully negotiated memorandum of understanding signed during Prime Minister Gaston Browne’s most recent visit to China.

Junior Minister Joseph: “This marks a pivotal moment for Antigua and Barbuda”

Speaking on behalf of the government, Junior Minister in the Ministry of Health, Michael Joseph, said the project represents more than infrastructure—it symbolizes a renewed national commitment to energy independence, public safety, and climate resilience.

“This is more than just a donation,” Joseph stated. “It is a public commitment to sustainability, resilience, safety, and a brighter future for all.”

Joseph added that the new solar units will reduce pressure on the national grid and bring immediate benefits to communities.

He thanked the Chinese government for its “consistent friendship and tangible support,” adding that the collaboration aligns with Antigua and Barbuda’s push toward cleaner energy sources and lower carbon emissions.

Yangde Electric to Oversee Installation and Provide Training

The installation will be carried out by Yangde Electric, a major Chinese manufacturing and engineering firm specializing in renewable technology. The company’s chairman, Zhang Aiwen, said the team is honored to play a role in strengthening Antigua and Barbuda’s green transformation.

“Our solar products are designed for high energy efficiency and durability—even in tropical climates with high wind and corrosion potential,” Zhang noted.

Senator Michael Joseph and China’s Ambassador to Antigua and Barbuda, H.E. Jiang Wei

He said Yangde Electric adhered to strict quality standards from production to shipment and will keep personnel on the ground to train APUA staff and local technicians in installation, commissioning, and maintenance. This training, he said, ensures long-term sustainability and local ownership of the system.

“We understand that the value of aid lies not only in the materials, but also in the sharing of technology and the strengthening of friendship,” Zhang said. “Our cooperation is as enduring as the Caribbean sun, illuminating a brighter future for both our nations.”

A National Step Toward a Greener, Safer, More Resilient Antigua and Barbuda

With 1,500 new streetlights set to brighten roads across the country and 200 home systems improving household energy stability, the project is expected to deliver immediate and long-term benefits—from reduced electricity demand to increased nighttime safety.

Officials say the initiative is a major step toward Antigua and Barbuda’s renewable energy and climate adaptation goals, especially as Small Island Developing States face increasing threats from rising seas, stronger storms, and global energy shocks.

As the installation phase begins, both governments reaffirmed their commitment to continued collaboration in climate resilience, green technology, and sustainable development.

In the words of Yangde Electric’s chairman: “May the tree of friendship between our two nations remain evergreen.”