The operations of the new solar PV plant in Limlair, Carriacou, should result in significant savings for the lone electricity company, the Grenada Electricity Services Ltd (Grenlec).
The plant, with over 1,400 solar panels, is currently under construction and is supported with financing from the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Officials say that on completion, it should lead to a reduction in fuel consumption by 30,000 gallons.
To get a firsthand look at how much progress is being made, Minister for Climate Resilience, the Environment & Renewable Energy Hon. Kerryne James led a delegation to the project site. Permanent Secretary Merina Jessamy and members of the Project Steering Committee were among those accompanying the Minister.
The Government, said Minister James, is pleased to receive UAE funding for the project that would enable the nation to achieve part of its sustainable renewable energy goals. She also suggested that there should be collaboration in the region on renewable energy matters.
Rodney George, Advisor to the Cabinet on Energy Matters, said the Limlair Solar PV Plant is just one of the climate resilience projects the government is actively implementing.
To ensure better understanding of the project and proper implementation, representatives from the executing agency MASDAR from the United Arab Emirates, and the contracting firm ENZEM, are on island. Oliver Broughton from MASDAR said the Carriacou plant is part of a regional project in 6 islands costing over US$50 Million.
Prime Minister Hon. Dickon Mitchell recently visited the site to get an appreciation of what’s being done.
The plant should be officially commissioned this October.
Ministry of Carriacou & Petite Martinique Affairs
Please tell us how these solar panels are to be protected against Hurricanes so this investment is not mashed up in one go.
They will be constructed to withstand a category 4 hurricane to withstand wind speeds up to 170 mph
Good question! Also, what is the cost of the loan from the UAE?