Dominica to boost Geothermal Power Plant by constructing new transmission system

Dominica has signed a significant contract of a loan of $38.9 million to construct a new transmission system which will play a huge role in advancing green energy and bringing sustainability.

While shedding light on the contracting ceremony, the Prime Minister of Commonwealth of Dominica, Dr Roosevelt Skerrit stated that he is extremely happy to witness one of the final phase’s realizations of the 10-megawatt geothermal plant.

The Prime Minister called this journey “significant” for leading the island nation towards advancing renewable energy in the Caribbean region. Ha stated that his government is committed to this project because it would play a huge role in bringing economic transformation to the island nation.

PM Skerrit continued to say that if they want to address the issue of sustainable growth and investments, then they will have to make sure that they have cheaper energy countries with tourism and manufacturing where energy is at a reasonable price.

The Prime Minister stated that they pay too much for electricity because they import diesel to supply. Therefore, they will have to ensure that they always import the inflation and the cost which has to be passed on to the consumers because the government cannot subsidize it all of the time and neither would a private company.

Moreover, Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit also mentioned about the benefits that cruise ships and cargo boats have been availing by reducing carbon footprint. He added that therefore they will have to continue to find ways and make investments in order to ensure that the cruise vessels docked at the shores are not using generators but rather connected to the national grid.

“One Carnival Cruise Ship, the large one will consume about 10 MW of electricity, when is fully operational and so one can appreciate if they’re here for an entire day the kind of monies that dock could make and the kinds of revenues that the country could make,” noted PM Roosevelt Skerrit.

CABRITS MARINA

The Prime Minister also mentioned about the starting of the construction of Cabrits Marina and stated its yards are connected to the grid. He added that these grids won’t run the generators while they’re there for a month or for a week and therefore, they will have to look at ramping up their supply of energy so they can build a greater capacity to supply those who come to their shores.

INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

The Prime Minister also mentioned about the completion of the International Airport by 2027. He stated it will also be connected to the national grid. “Of course, the International Airport alone will need major even if they will have the backup generator, the intention there is to be connected to the National Grid.”

PRIVATE SECTOR

The Prime Minister also mentioned about the opportunities for the private sector and asked them to invest in renewable energy and to supply the National Grid. He guaranteed all those sectors, they will receive decent return on their investment as these cruise lines are prepared to sign agreement with Dominica.

Moreover, PM Skerrit mentioned about the strong Partnership with the World Bank and stated that they have been constructive and engaging.