In an initiative aimed at transforming Dominica’s energy landscape, the government is orchestrating the Geothermal Global Partners Conference. This endeavor seeks to marshal international support and resources for the development of geothermal energy infrastructure on the island.
The conference, titled ‘Dominica Geothermal Global Partners‘, is a collaborative effort involving the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), the United States Department of State, and the United Nations, particularly their offices in the Eastern Caribbean and Barbados.
Dr. Vince Henderson, the Minister for Foreign Affairs, International Business, Trade, and Energy, recently emphasized the importance of this collaborative approach during a live interview on state-owned Radio DBS. He highlighted the broad coalition of partners assembled for this significant project, which includes the Government of Iceland and the World Bank, representing crucial sources of both financial support and technical expertise.
The initiative focuses on two key areas to bring geothermal power to homes and businesses across Dominica. The first area entails the construction of a geothermal plant in Laudat. Dr. Henderson underlined that all preliminary work, such as well drilling, resource testing, and plant design, is complete, signifying readiness for construction. This stage necessitates a substantial investment of approximately $60 million.
The government has identified a financial partner to develop this project. However, the aim is to mobilize additional partners like the Caribbean Development Bank to secure concessional financing and ensure competitive rates for consumers.
Dr. Henderson outlined the second part of the project, which involves constructing transmission lines from Laudat to Fond Cole. While funds for the Fond Cole section are secured, there’s a substantial need for the transmission system from Fond Cole to Sugar Loaf in Portsmouth. This component is integral to building a resilient infrastructure with a focus on minimizing service disruptions during adverse weather conditions.
Addressing the delay in the geothermal power plant’s construction, Dr. Henderson expressed government apologies to the Dominican public. He acknowledged the lengthy process of bringing a geothermal project to fruition, which typically spans 7 to 10 years due to the complex technical and financial aspects involved.
Despite these challenges, Dr. Henderson reaffirmed the long-term benefits of geothermal energy. Once operational, a geothermal power plant, properly maintained and designed, can serve the nation for five to six decades.
The government’s invitation to international partners seeks to gain momentum, finalize construction contracts, and kickstart the project early next year. The goal is to see the project through by the end of 2025, ensuring Dominica’s energy independence and a stable power supply.
This transformative initiative aims to liberate Dominica from dependence on fossil fuels, weather conditions, and battery replacements, ensuring a consistent 24/7 power supply for the nation.
This article is copyright © 2023 DOM767
