The government of Guyana and AI infrastructure company Cerebras Systems have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to build and operate an artificial intelligence (AI) data centre of up to 100MW in Wales in the Demerara region on the country’s coast.

Cerebras says its investment will deploy its cutting-edge CS-3 AI supercomputers and infrastructure to serve international demand, as well as position Guyana as a global destination for startups, researchers and enterprises seeking high-performance compute capabilities in a favourable country environment. The facility, it adds, will serve as the cornerstone of a thriving technology ecosystem.

Cerebras also notes that it will further invest in upskilling Guyanese talent, launching training programmes, research initiatives, sponsoring of partnerships with international universities and internship opportunities to ensure that the benefits of this partnership are felt across every community.

As yet there appears to be no timetable for the rollout of the new AI data centre, though the two partners say that the facility, located near a new gas-to-energy plant, will anchor the country's broader vision for digital prosperity, including education hubs, startup incubators and advanced research centres.

The aim of the planned gas-to-energy project is to establish infrastructure so natural gas can be transported from an offshore oilfield to an integrated gas processing facility at Wales. The project will deliver natural gas liquids and dry gas to the government. The power plant is expected to be fully operational with a combined cycle by the end of 2025 or mid-2026.

Guyana boasts vast offshore oil and gas reserves and abundant natural resources. It also actively promotes climate resilience, renewable energy projects, and partnerships for green financing.

In addition, its geographic location on the northern coast of South America offers a unique advantage as a bridge between South America and the Caribbean.