Ormat Technologies and Dominica’s Geothermal Revolution

Ormat Technologies Inc. is a global leader in geothermal energy development. Through its subsidiary, the Geothermal Power Company of Dominica Ltd. (GPCD), Ormat actively contributes to Dominica’s renewable energy transformation. Headquartered in Reno, Nevada, Ormat has brought its advanced geothermal expertise to the Caribbean, partnering with Dominica to harness its vast geothermal potential.

Ormat’s Role in Dominica’s Geothermal Energy Development

In December 2023, Ormat, through GPCD, signed a 25-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with Dominica Electricity Services Ltd. (DOMLEC) to develop a 10-megawatt (MW) geothermal power plant in Laudat. This marks Dominica’s most significant step towards achieving its 100% renewable energy target, as outlined in the country’s Climate Resilience and Recovery Plan (CRRP).

Key aspects of Ormat’s involvement in Dominica include:

• Construction and operation of the Laudat Geothermal Power Plant, expected to be operational by 2025.
• Management of all power generation activities, ensuring stable and efficient electricity supply.
• Supplying electricity to DOMLEC, reducing Dominica’s dependence on imported fossil fuels.
• Sustainability measures using binary cycle geothermal technology, which reinjects geothermal fluids into the reservoir, ensuring long-term resource viability.

The Geothermal Power Company of Dominica Ltd. (GPCD)

Ormat operates in Dominica through its subsidiary, Geothermal Power Company of Dominica Ltd. (GPCD). While GPCD will finance and operate the plant, the Government of Dominica retains ownership of the geothermal wells, land, and infrastructure. After 25 years, ownership of the power plant will transfer to the government, securing Dominica’s energy independence.

This public-private partnership allows Dominica to benefit from Ormat’s global expertise while maintaining sovereign control over its natural resources.

Environmental and Economic Impact

The Ormat-led geothermal project is expected to bring multiple benefits to Dominica, including:

• Lower electricity costs for businesses and households by replacing expensive diesel-generated power.
• A reduction in carbon emissions, supporting Dominica’s efforts to become a climate-resilient nation.
• Job creation and skill development, providing employment opportunities in renewable energy.
• Potential energy exports, allowing Dominica to sell excess geothermal power to neighboring islands in the future.

Ormat’s Commitment to Dominica’s Future

With Ormat’s track record in geothermal power, the Laudat project is just the beginning of Dominica’s long-term renewable energy transition. Future expansions could lead to increased geothermal energy capacity, further strengthening Dominica’s leadership in Caribbean renewable energy.