Government Accelerates Renewable Energy Development
By: , November 6, 2026
Photo: Dave Reid
Minister of Energy, Transport and Telecommunications, Hon. Daryl Vaz (right), is greeted by Chief Operating Officer of Caribbean Solar Life, Chevaughne Miller (centre), while General Manager of Appliance Traders Limited, Bradford Wong (left), looks on. Occasion was the official opening of Caribbean Solar Life’s Kingston Distribution Centre and Showroom in Ferry, St. Catherine, on November 5.The Full Story
The Government is advancing reforms to Jamaica’s electricity sector to secure more affordable and reliable energy for consumers, while accelerating renewable energy development, says Minister of Energy, Transport and Telecommunications, Hon. Daryl Vaz.
Addressing the official opening of Caribbean Solar Life’s Kingston Distribution Centre and Showroom in Ferry, St. Catherine, on November 5, Mr. Vaz said reducing electricity costs remains a central consideration guiding the Government’s reform agenda.
“High electricity costs affect our competitiveness, increase operating expenses and place considerable pressure on the disposable income of our people. The Government is determined to change that and this Minister is even more determined to change that,” he emphasised.
Mr. Vaz noted that Jamaica has committed to generating 50 per cent of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030, an ambitious target that will require decisive action, sustained investment and collaboration between the public and private sectors.
He disclosed that the Government is advancing arrangements for the 100-megawatt renewable energy procurement undertaken in 2023, including securing battery storage, with the expectation that the power purchase agreement will be signed before the end of November.
The Minister said the 300-megawatt procurement would follow immediately after the first arrangement is finalised.
Mr. Vaz emphasised that Jamaica’s energy transition was not merely an environmental aspiration but also an economic development and national security priority, noting that a diversified energy mix could strengthen energy independence, improve resilience, attract investment and create employment opportunities.
He said the Government would continue pursuing electricity-sector reforms while encouraging investment, innovation and competition, adding that the new electricity licensing arrangements must ultimately serve the interests of the Jamaican people and support national prosperity.
