Dear Editor,

I refer to Mr. Sohan's letter captioned, "Hydropower project could take ten years" (2005.09.28) as well as the editor's note at the bottom of the letter indicating that the company is offering to develop hydropower facilities with funds it raises once it gets a power purchase agreement with Guyana Power and Light. Where would the developer of this project be able to raise funds necessary to carry out this ambitious project?

The lending agencies require stringent environmental regulations before providing large loans. The previous government created a Special Hydropower Division during the 1970s and although a site was identified, it was difficult to obtain a loan from the lending agencies.

Guyana is a poor country with a small, dwindling population and a long coastline struggling to survive on a daily basis.

Hydropower in Guyana is indeed a pipe dream according to Mr. Sohan.

Above all, who will be the ultimate owner of a plant built in disputed territory?

Frankly, it would be more prudent and cheaper for the government to investigate the possibility of purchasing electricity from neighbouring Venezuela.

Yours faithfully,

Malcolm Alli