Trafalgar Power Station

Trafalgar Power Station is a hydroelectric facility in the village of Trafalgar, Roseau Valley, Dominica. Commissioned in 1952, it is one of the island’s oldest renewable energy installations. Operated by Dominica Electricity Services Limited (DOMLEC), the power station harnesses the energy of the Roseau River to generate electricity, contributing significantly to Dominica’s renewable energy efforts and reducing reliance on imported fossil fuels.

Technical Specifications and Operations

The power station has an installed capacity of approximately 1.88 megawatts (MW). It utilizes a run-of-the-river system, where water from the Roseau River is diverted through penstocks to drive turbines without large reservoirs. The generated electricity is transmitted to the national grid, supplying power to the capital, Roseau, and surrounding communities. The location in the Roseau Valley is ideal due to the river’s flow rate and the area’s high rainfall, especially during the wet season, enhancing the station’s efficiency.

Role in Renewable Energy and Community Impact

As part of Dominica’s commitment to achieving 100% renewable energy by 2030, Trafalgar Power Station plays a crucial role. Alongside other hydroelectric plants like the Padu Power Station and Laudat Power Stations, it contributes to approximately 30% of the island’s electricity generation from renewable sources. The facility not only supports the national grid but also promotes sustainable development in the Roseau Valley. Its proximity to the famous Trafalgar Falls makes it a point of interest for eco-tourism, and DOMLEC occasionally facilitates educational tours to raise awareness about renewable energy and environmental conservation.