Dominica’s Power Woes: DOMLEC and Bertilia McKenzie Address Generation Shortfall
Dominica recently experienced island-wide power outages, with Dominica Electricity Services Ltd (DOMLEC) attributing these interruptions to inadequate generation capacity, a problem that has been recurring.
According to Bertilia McKenzie, DOMLEC’s Manager, the issue stems from increased power consumption in 2023, with the peak load reaching 17.62 megawatts compared to 16.38 megawatts in 2021 and 16.35 megawatts in 2022. She pointed out that not only are Dominicans using more electricity, but the aging generation fleet, including 10 megawatts of outdated diesel generation, also compounds the problem.
In response to these challenges, DOMLEC has implemented immediate measures. The government has provided an 800 KW generator expected to be operational by September 15. Additionally, a generation consultant from St. Lucia will assess the generation system and provide recommendations, starting on September 18. In the short term, DOMLEC plans to lease two megawatts of temporary generation from external sources.
McKenzie emphasized the need for additional generation capacity, stating that the country requires two to four megawatts, subject to Independent Regulatory Commission (IRC) approval. In the medium to long term, a 10 megawatt geothermal power plant under construction in Laudat is expected to address these concerns, with commissioning projected within a few years.
These power interruptions, often referred to by DOMLEC as part of its “Capacity Management Program,” have triggered frustration among Dominicans, sparking discussions on social media.
In March 2022, the Dominican government acquired majority shares in DOMLEC, with Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit emphasizing that it was in the best interests of consumers, shareholders, employees, and Dominica as a whole. The acquisition aligns with the government’s aim to make Dominica the world’s first climate-resilient country, working towards a national target of achieving 100% clean, carbon-neutral energy by 2030.
As the power outages persist, public frustration mounts, and questions arise about the government’s responsibility in addressing these issues.
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