Saint Lucia solar farm becomes the island’s largest renewable energy project
Saint Lucia has taken a significant step towards renewable energy with the launch of a 3 MW solar farm in Vieux Fort. This project—developed by Emera Caribbean Renewables Ltd. (ECRL)—is the island’s largest renewable energy initiative to date. As a noteworthy addition to the island’s energy landscape, the solar farm is expected to power 3,400 homes, providing a reliable source of clean energy and reducing Saint Lucia’s carbon emissions by 3,800 tonnes annually. This reduction in emissions is equivalent to removing 800 cars from the road each year.
The solar farm covers 13 acres of land in Vieux Fort and features 5,400 solar panels. These panels are designed to withstand hurricane-force winds, ensuring the farm’s resilience in the face of extreme weather. The project also includes a 2.5 MWh battery energy storage system, which will help stabilize the island’s electricity grid.
Emera’s renewable energy investment powers Saint Lucia solar farm
Emera Caribbean Renewables Ltd. (ECRL) is a subsidiary of Emera Inc., a leading energy company in North America. Emera Inc. is headquartered in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada, and its portfolio includes power generation, transmission, and distribution assets. The company serves over 2.5 million customers across Canada, the United States, and the Caribbean.
Emera’s investment in the Vieux Fort solar farm is part of its broader strategy to support renewable energy initiatives in the Caribbean. The company has committed to developing 30 MW of renewable energy projects across the region.
“Today is a great day for our company, for Saint Lucia, and for our planet,” said ECRL President Rick Janega at the launch event. “This solar farm is a testament to our commitment to supporting the transition to renewable energy in the Caribbean.”
Saint Lucia solar farm supports national clean energy goals
Saint Lucia has set ambitious goals to increase its use of renewable energy. The island aims to generate 35% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2025 and 50% by 2030. The Vieux Fort solar farm is a major milestone in achieving these targets. For more on Saint Lucia’s renewable energy progress, visit PVknowhow.com.
The Saint Lucia Electricity Services Limited (LUCELEC) will purchase the electricity generated by the solar farm under a power purchase agreement with ECRL. This agreement ensures that the electricity produced by the farm will be integrated into the island’s energy grid.
“The Vieux Fort solar farm is a key part of our strategy to diversify Saint Lucia’s energy mix and reduce our dependence on imported fossil fuels,” said LUCELEC Managing Director Trevor Louisy.
Saint Lucia solar farm sets example for Caribbean sustainability
The Vieux Fort solar farm is not only a significant achievement for Saint Lucia but also a model for other Caribbean nations. The project demonstrates the potential for renewable energy to meet the region’s energy needs while reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
The success of the Vieux Fort solar farm is expected to inspire similar projects across the Caribbean. The region has abundant solar, wind, and geothermal resources, which can be harnessed to create a more sustainable energy future.
As countries in the Caribbean continue to face the impacts of climate change, the shift towards renewable energy is becoming increasingly important. Projects like the Vieux Fort solar farm show that the transition to clean energy is not only possible but also economically viable.
The launch of the 3 MW solar farm in Vieux Fort marks a new chapter in Saint Lucia’s energy history. With the support of Emera Caribbean Renewables Ltd. and LUCELEC, the island is well on its way to achieving its renewable energy goals. The project serves as a reminder that with the right investments and partnerships, a cleaner and more sustainable energy future is within reach for all Caribbean nations.