Jamaica Solar Report

Discover comprehensive insights into the statistics, market trends, and growth potential surrounding the solar panel manufacturing industry in Jamaica

  1. Kingston Climate. Sunlight in Kingston. http://www.kingston.climatemps.com/sunlight.php
  2. Profile Solar. Jamaica, Kingston. https://profilesolar.com/locations/Jamaica/Kingston/
  3. Premier Energy Solution. (2023, February, 2). Solar Energy in Jamaica. https://premierenergysolutionja.com/solar-energy-in-jamaica/
  4. Statista. (2024, June 28). Quarterly household electricity prices in Jamaica 2020-2023. https://www.statista.com/statistics/1374913/household-electricity-prices-in-jamaica/
  5. Jamaica Public Service. (2023, October 12). JPS President Commits to Improving Reliability. https://www.jpsco.com/jps-president-commits-to-improving-reliability/
  6. ImpactAlpha. (2024, February 12). IDB Invest directs $100 million to modernize Jamaica’s electricity grid. https://impactalpha.com/idb-invest-directs-100-million-to-modernize-jamaicas-electricity-grid/
  7. Jamaica Gleaner. (2024, March 26). Over 136,000 JPS System Outages Recorded Last Year. https://jamaica-gleaner.com/article/news/20240326/over-136000-jps-system-outages-recorded-last-year
  8. Jamaica Homes. What are the off-peak hours for JPS? https://jamaica-homes.com/docs/what-are-the-off-peak-hours-for-jps/
  9. IRENA. (2024, July). Renewable Energy Statistics 2024. https://www.irena.org/-/media/Files/IRENA/Agency/Publication/2024/Jul/IRENA_Renewable_Energy_Statistics_2024.pdf
  10. Jamaica Information Service. (2018, October 17). Jamaica to Increase Renewables Target to 50% – PM Holness. https://jis.gov.jm/jamaica-to-increase-renewables-target-to-50-pm-holness/
  11. PV Magazine. (2023, September 19). Jamaica seeks proposals for 100 MW of renewables. https://www.pv-magazine.com/2023/09/19/jamaica-seeks-proposals-for-100-mw-of-renewables/
  12. PV Magazine. (2019, October 4). Solar delivers cheapest power in Jamaica. https://www.pv-magazine.com/2019/10/04/solar-delivers-cheapest-power-in-jamaica/
  13. Xenogyre. (2015, January 31). The Economics of Wind Power in Jamaica. https://xenogyre.com/2015/01/31/the-economics-of-wind-power-in-jamaica/
  14. Tracking Standard. (2024, March 26). I-RECE Country Assessment: Jamaica. https://www.trackingstandard.org/wp-content/uploads/Public_I-RECE-Country-Assessment_Jamaica-26Mar2024.pdf
  15. Worldometer. Jamaica Electricity. https://www.worldometers.info/electricity/jamaica-electricity/
  16. Conserve It. The Future of Solar Energy in Jamaica. https://conserveitja.com/the-future-of-solar-energy-in-jamaica/
  17. New Energy Events. (2019, October 3). Jamaica’s 51.5 MW Paradise Park Solar Project Begins Operations. https://newenergyevents.com/jamaicas-51-5-mw-paradise-park-solar-project-begins-operations/
  18. WRB Enterprises. (2016, August 28). Jamaica 28MW Content Solar Project. https://wrbenterprises.com/energy/jamaica-28mw-content-solar-project/
  19. New Energy Events. (2023, December 7). JPS puts out tenders for three renewable energy plants totaling 300 MW. https://newenergyevents.com/jps-puts-out-tenders-for-three-renewable-energy-plants-totaling-300-mw/
  20. Jamaica Information Service. (2018, May 16). Low-Income, Off-Grid Communities to Get Solar Power. https://jis.gov.jm/low-income-off-grid-communities-to-get-solar-power/
  21. Ruralelec. Status of the off-grid renewable energy market in Latin America the Caribbean 2021. (2023, November). https://www.ruralelec.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Status-of-the-off-grid-renewable-energy-market-in-Latin-America-the-Caribbean-2021.pdf
  22. Jamaica Public Service. (2023, November 13). JPS to Collaborate with Energy Ministry to Power Off-Grid Communities. https://www.jpsco.com/jps-to-collaborate-with-energy-ministry-to-power-off-grid-communities/
  23. Wikipedia. Solar power in Jamaica. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Solar_power_in_Jamaica
  24. Atlas HXM. Jamaica New Minimum Wage. https://www.atlashxm.com/resources/jamaica-new-minimum-wage/
  25. Worldometer. Jamaica Population. https://www.worldometers.info/world-population/jamaica-population/
  26. Realtor. Industrial Warehouse for Rent in Saint James Parish. https://www.realtor.com/international/jm/saint-james-parish/industrial-warehouse/rent/
  27. Bank of Jamaica. Policy Rates. https://boj.org.jm/core-functions/monetary-policy/policy-rates/
  28. Jamaica Observer. (2022, January 22). What’s Driving Electricity Rates in Jamaica? https://www.jamaicaobserver.com/2022/01/22/whats-driving-electricity-rates-in-jamaica/
  29. OUR. Media Release – (2024, May 10). OUR Approves New Rates for Can-Cara Development Ltd. https://our.org.jm/media-release-our-approves-new-rates-for-can-cara-development-ltd/
  30. Ministry of Science, Energy and Technology. Electricity Investments. https://www.mset.gov.jm/electricity-investments/
  31. Jamaica Public Service. Our Business. https://www.jpsco.com/our-business/
  32. Ministry of Science, Energy and Technology. Invest in Energy. https://www.mset.gov.jm/invest-in-energy/
  33. PIOJ. (2022, October). Voluntary National Review 2022. https://www.pioj.gov.jm/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/VNR_Goal_7.pdf
  34. Ministry of Science, Energy and Technology. (2019, July). JPSCo Standard Offer Contract Determination Notice. https://www.mset.gov.jm/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/JPSCo-Standard-Offer-Contract-Determination-Notice.pdf
  35. OUR. (2021, April). Media Release – OUR on Solar Panel. https://our.org.jm/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/media_release_-_our_on_solar_panel.pdf
  36. Jamaica Information Service. (2024, July 26). Senate Approves Tax Credit for Acquisition and Installation of Solar Systems at Places of Residence. https://jis.gov.jm/senate-approves-tax-credit-for-acquisition-and-installation-of-solar-systems-at-places-of-residence/
  37. Premier Energy Solution. (2023, November 2). Frequently Asked Questions on Solar Energy in Jamaica. https://premierenergysolutionja.com/frequently-asked-questions-on-solar-energy-in-jamaica/
  38. Jamaica Information Service. (2015, January 19). Strong Take on Renewable Energy Policy. https://jis.gov.jm/strong-take-renewable-energy-policy/
  39. Cadmus. Strengthening Energy Sector Resilience in Jamaica. https://cadmusgroup.com/cp/jamaicaenergy/
  40. National Water Commission. Floating Solar. https://www.nwcjamaica.com/floating_solar.php
  41. Jamaica Gleaner. (2021, September 24). Global energy firm plans big solar plant for Jamaica. https://jamaica-gleaner.com/article/business/20210924/global-energy-firm-plans-big-solar-plant-jamaica
  42. Conserve It Ltd. https://conserveitja.com/
  43. Green Lantan Energy. About Us. http://www.solarspecialistja.com/
  44. Crunchbase. GMc Energy Limited. https://www.crunchbase.com/organization/conserve-it
  45. Solar Buzz Jamaica. About Us. https://solarbuzzjamaica.com/
  46. Carisol Group. About Us. https://www.carisolgroup.com/
  47. Premier Energy Solution. About Us. https://premierenergysolutionja.com/
  48. JMI Solar. About Us. https://jmisolar.com/
  49. Salary.Expert. Solar Photovoltaic Installer. https://www.salaryexpert.com/salary/job/solar-photovoltaic-installer/jamaica

Key points

  • All figures have been converted into USD

Yearly sunshine (sun hours per year)

Jamaica boasts an average of 3,002 sunlight hours annually, with a daily average of 8 hours and 13 minutes. Sunlight is available for 68.5% of daylight hours.1

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kWh per kWp installed

In sunnier locations like Kingston, a kilowatt of installed solar capacity generates approximately 2,460 kWh per kwp annually in summer, 2,180 kWh in autumn, and 1,960 kWh in winter.2

Even in cloudier areas like Port Antonio, a 1 kW system can still produce 1,460 kWh per year.3

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Average cost per kWh from utility company

As of September 2023, the residential electricity cost was US$0.25 per kWh. This is higher than the Caribbean regional average.4

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Reliability of electrical power supply grid

While Jamaica Public Service JPS is modernizing the grid and implementing smart technologies to improve reliability, challenges persist. Electricity theft remains a concern. 5

Despite efforts like smart LED streetlights and a $100 million investment from IDB Invest for grid modernization, reliability continues to deteriorate. 6

The System Average Interruption Frequency Index (SAIFI) has risen to 11.8 interruptions per customer, a 57.3% decline in performance. 7

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Detailed Information

  • All figures have been converted into USD

    • Total solar panel production capacity (installed)

    Jamaica’s installed solar capacity is approximately 110 MW as of 2023. 9

    Total solar panel production capacity (projected)

    Jamaica aims for 50% renewable energy in the energy mix by 2030. The government is actively seeking proposals for 100 MW of renewable energy. 11

    Average costs of various electricity generation sources (coal, natural gas, solar, etc)

    • Petroleum-based fuels: As the predominant source of electricity generation in Jamaica, the cost is approximately US$0.25 per kWh, closely mirroring the current residential electricity price. 4
    • Solar: Paradise Park solar project now provides the cheapest electricity in Jamaica at US$0.085/kWh. 12
    • Wind: Estimated to cost between US$0.129 and US$0.188 per kWh. 13

    Percentages of various electricity generation sources (coal, natural gas, solar, etc)

    • Fossil Fuels: 83-91% 14
    • Wind: 4.74% 15
    • Biomass and Waste: 5.32% 15
    • Solar: 0.32% 15

    Average daily availability of electricity from the national grid (measured in hours)

    While generally available 24/7, grid reliability is inconsistent, with outages affecting supply. 7

    JPS has designated off-peak hours (weeknights 10 pm-6 am, and all day on weekends and holidays except 6 pm-10 pm) to encourage more balanced electricity usage and potentially offer lower rates during these periods. 8

    Number of residential solar panel installations

    While precise installation numbers are unavailable, over 800 licenses have been issued under the net billing scheme since 2012, indicating substantial residential interest in solar PV systems. 12

    Total number of solar farms (installed and projected)

    Installed:

    Jamaica has two large-scale utility farms: 16 Paradise Park (51.5 MW)17 and Content Solar Farm (20 MW).18

    Projected:

    Three new JPS renewable energy plants including a 115 MW solar PV plant are planned. 19

    Off-grid market demand for solar panels (current and projected)

    Current Demand: Off-grid solar provides essential power in remote areas with unreliable grids, with solar lanterns being a common use. A PCJ, The Petroleum Corporation of Jamaica, pilot program is providing solar power in Jamaica through solar PV kits to off-grid households.20

    Despite a 97% electrification rate in the LAC region, including Jamaica, 18.1 million people still lack access, creating substantial demand for off-grid solutions like standalone systems (70%) and mini-grids (30%). 21

    Projected Demand: The off-grid market is projected to experience increased demand. Government initiatives aimed at providing off-grid solutions to underserved communities will also contribute to this growth. 22

    On-grid market demand for solar panels (current and projected)

    Current Demand: The on-grid market is robust and growing, driven by government incentives and consumer desire for lower electricity bills. Net billing policies further encourage on-grid solar adoption. 23

    Projected Demand: While the initial National Energy Policy (NEP) targeted 20% renewables by 2030, the government has significantly increased this goal to 50% renewables in the grid by 2030. To reach this goal, the government has tendered 100 MW of utility-scale renewable energy projects, indicating substantial projected growth in on-grid solar capacity. 14

    Average monthly income of workers in solar industry (labor cost)

    The national minimum wage is approximately $400 per month. 24 Specialized solar roles like photovoltaic installers offer higher earnings $1,200 per month. 49

    Population of the country

    Jamaica’s population is approximately 2.84 million as of September 2024. 25

    Average overhead costs of solar panel production (with a brief breakdown)

    • Factory Rent: Monthly rental costs for industrial spaces vary significantly, ranging from approximately US$1,894 for smaller spaces to upwards of US$46,550 for larger facilities. 26
    • Mortgage Rate: The Bank of Jamaica’s benchmark interest rate is currently 6.75%. 27
    • Electricity for Industrial Use: The average industrial electricity cost is about US$0.248 per kWh. 28
    • Water Cost: Industrial water rates begin at $0.84 per 1,000 liters and increase with higher usage 29

    A summary of the energy infrastructure

    • Generation: Primarily relies on imported petroleum, which accounts for over 80% of electricity production.30
    • Transmission & Distribution: Operated by JPS, the grid consists of approximately 14,000 km of lines at varying voltage levels (24 kV, 13.8 kV, and 12 kV).30
    • Consumption: Serves around 680,000 residential and commercial customers.31
    • Access: Electricity access reaches approximately 97% of Jamaican households.30
    • Independent Power Producers (IPPs): JPS supplements its generation by purchasing nearly 297 MW from IPPs such as Jamaica Energy Partners (JEP), Jamaica Private Power Company (JPPC), Jamalco, and Wigton Wind Farm.30
    • Challenges: Significant system losses (26.5%) during transmission and distribution negatively impact efficiency.32

    Some of the government regulations surrounding solar panel production

    • National Energy Policy (NEP): Provides a framework for achieving a sustainable energy mix, with a goal of 50% renewables by 2030.10
    • Integrated Resource Plan (IRP): A 20-year plan for the electricity sector, guiding investment and development.33
    • Standard Offer Contract: Allows solar PV systems to sell electricity to the national grid under defined terms.34
    • Government Electrical Inspector: Conducts inspections to enforce safety standards and compliance with regulations.35
    • Office of Utilities Regulation (OUR): Plays a key role in licensing solar projects.35

    Government initiatives in solar panel production (includes investments and subsidies)

    • Tax Credits: Offer financial incentives for individuals and businesses investing in solar energy systems.36
    • Duty Concessions: Reduce import costs for solar equipment, making it more affordable.37
    • Grants: The National Housing Trust (NHT) provides financial assistance for solar installations, particularly targeting pensioners.37
    • Net Billing: Enables residential solar system owners to sell excess electricity back to the grid.38
    • Low-Interest Loans: Make financing solar projects more accessible and affordable. 38
    • SESR Program (Strengthening Energy Sector Resilience in Jamaica): This program bolstered energy resilience by supporting businesses in adopting solar PV systems, with 23 businesses successfully implementing such systems.39
    • PV+ Pilot Project: The PV+ Pilot Project, featuring a 500kW PV system and a 1,064 kWh battery at LASCO Distributors Ltd., demonstrated the effectiveness of integrating solar PV with battery storage for enhanced grid stability.39

    Notable solar projects in the country (installed and projected)

    Installed Projects:

    • Mona Reservoir Floating Solar Project: This project has two components: a pilot project (approximately 50kW, installed in May 2022) and the main project (45 MW). The project utilizes 100 acres of the reservoir’s surface and includes battery storage and grid stability equipment. It provides 100% of the Mona Treatment Plant’s energy needs,40

    Projected Projects:

    • JPS Solar Projects: Jamaica Public Service (JPS) is developing multiple new solar plants with a combined planned capacity of 115 MW. These projects are in various stages of development. 19
    • MPC Energy Solutions Solar Project: MPC is planning a large-scale 72.5 MW solar plant, one of the biggest planned projects in the Caribbean. It is currently in the development phase. 41

    Some of the notable solar companies (plus brief details on what they do)

    • Conserve It Ltd: Began providing solar energy solutions in Jamaica in 2003. The company offers a variety of products and services, including solar water heaters, solar pool heating, and solar photovoltaic systems. 42
    • Green Lantan Energy – The Solar Specialist (2011): A leading provider of affordable solar solutions in Jamaica, offering a wide range of products like solar water heaters, PV systems, and energy-efficient lighting, along with comprehensive installation and maintenance services. 43
    • GMc Energy Limited (2016): Focuses on making renewable energy accessible to Jamaicans, providing scalable solar PV systems and energy efficiency consulting to promote independent power generation and cost savings. 44
    • Solar Buzz Jamaica (2011): Specializes in residential and commercial solar installations, emphasizing energy freedom and environmental sustainability. They offer services from consultation to maintenance. 45
    • Carisol Group Int’l. (1997): Specializes in renewable energy and home automation solutions, offering solar power systems, water heaters, and other related products. 46
    • Premier Energy Solution Limited: Provides high-quality, customizable solar panel solutions for residential and commercial purposes, including panels, inverters, batteries, and lighting. 47
    • JMI Solar (1981): A division of Jamaica Microfilm Inc., specializing in renewable energy solutions, including solar panels, inverters, and complete solar systems for residential and commercial use. 48

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