Fond Cole Power Station

The Fond Cole Power Station, operated by Dominica Electricity Services Ltd. (DOMLEC), is one of Dominica’s key electricity generation facilities. Located in the Fond Cole Industrial Area, just north of Roseau, the power station has an installed capacity of 13.3 MW, making it one of the largest energy production sites on the island. It primarily uses diesel engines to generate power and plays a crucial role in the island’s energy grid. The power station connects to a transmission network that links other essential energy sources, including the hydroelectric plants in the Roseau Valley, such as the Trafalgar and Laudat Power Stations.

Operational Challenges and Community Engagement

In recent years, the Fond Cole Power Station has faced challenges, especially after Hurricane Maria, which led to noise emission issues due to damaged infrastructure and loss of vegetation around the station. DOMLEC has taken steps to address these concerns to repair the plant’s enclosures and engage with the local community on environmental and health impacts, including regular emissions testing. This engagement ensures that the plant’s operations do not adversely affect the surrounding residential areas and helps maintain transparency with the public.

Power Distribution and Future Developments

The Fond Cole Power Station is integral to Dominica’s power distribution network, which spans hundreds of kilometers of transmission lines. It is part of a broader strategy to integrate diesel-generated electricity with hydropower and future geothermal energy initiatives. The government has also announced plans to develop further transmission systems connecting Fond Cole to the geothermal power plant, enhancing Dominica’s renewable energy capacity.