Mscale, a renewable energy investment firm, has made a significant investment in Sunterra Energy to develop what is set to be Jamaica’s largest solar farm. This landmark project, located in Trelawny on the nation’s northwest coast, will be constructed in phases, with an initial capacity of 80 MWp. It has the potential to eventually expand to 200 MW with battery storage, which would be enough to supply roughly 12% of Jamaica’s total electricity needs. This initiative marks a major milestone in the country’s clean energy transition.
Sunterra Energy: Leading the Way with the Jamaica solar farm
Sunterra Energy is a Jamaican company specializing in commercial and industrial solar energy solutions, with a strong focus on developing large-scale, ground-mounted solar farms. The company is at the forefront of providing reliable and affordable solar energy, directly contributing to Jamaica’s clean energy transition and national renewable energy goals.
According to Emanuel DaRosa, CEO of Sunterra Energy, this project will deliver a multitude of benefits to the nation. It is projected to lower electricity costs for consumers, significantly reduce Jamaica’s carbon footprint, and decrease its dependence on imported fossil fuels like oil, diesel, and natural gas. Furthermore, the development is expected to create over 600 jobs for Jamaicans, providing a substantial economic boost. Sunterra’s expertise in developing innovative solar solutions, from understanding the basics of solar panel manufacturing to large-scale deployment, is crucial for expanding this vital infrastructure.
Mscale: Investing in the Future of the Jamaica solar farm
Mscale, which manages the Caribbean Venture Capital Fund (CVCF), is a renewable energy investment firm dedicated to emerging markets. The company provides critical capital and expertise to accelerate the transition to clean energy in developing regions. Mscale is committed to supporting projects that generate a positive environmental and social impact, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and promote sustainable development.
Ugo Ikemba, CEO of Mscale LLC, highlighted the project’s strategic importance, noting that “resilient clean infrastructure is no longer optional—it’s essential.” The investment in Sunterra Energy will accelerate the construction of the solar farm, which carries a total cost of US$56 million, supported by US$43 million in a blended finance structure. Understanding the solar panel manufacturing plant cost breakdown helps put the scale of this financial commitment into perspective. This project is the first of several Mscale plans to support across the region, reinforcing its commitment to a sustainable energy future.
Achieving Jamaica’s Renewable Energy Goals with the Jamaica solar farm
Jamaica has set ambitious targets for its energy sector, aiming to generate 50% of its energy from renewable sources by 2030. To achieve this, the government has implemented supportive policies and incentives to encourage investment, including tax breaks and streamlined permitting processes for renewable energy projects.
The country has been proactive in attracting international capital to support these initiatives. The development of this solar farm is a testament to that success. A project of this magnitude, which involves a complex solar panel manufacturing process for its components, will play a pivotal role in helping Jamaica meet its 2030 targets. By strengthening the country’s energy independence and resilience, this collaboration between Mscale and Sunterra Energy is a powerful step forward for Jamaica’s sustainable future.
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