Govt looking at smart grid technology

KINGSTON — Minister of State for Energy and Mining, Laurence Broderick, said the Government is examining the feasibility of introducing smart grid technology to the island’s electricity distribution network.

“Yes, we are looking at it.  We just had an expert down, who has been assisting us in that direction,” he told a recent JIS Think Tank, informing that technical discussions and talks with primary stakeholders are also being held.

Smart grids are electrical networks that can intelligently integrate the behaviour and actions of all users connected to it, in order to efficiently deliver a sustainable, cost effective and secure electricity service. The use of the technology could significantly reduce electricity costs for Jamaicans, as it allows customers to only pay for what they need.

In Jamaica’s case, according to experts, its introduction and application could lead to at least a US$0.5 reduction in the cost of electricity. This, coupled with the projected reduction of US$0.10 through the use of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), could see a combined conservative reduction of US$0.15, and would put the island’s productive sector in good stead to compete internationally.

Mr. Broderick, in the meantime, said the private sector has demonstrated support for the Government’s energy efficiency policy.

“They are ready and more willing than ever to come on board. They are saying, give us a good formula for pricing electricity back to the grid and we will be there with you. I don’t think there’s any stronger message that can be sent to a Government,” he stated.  

By O. RODGER HUTCHINSON, JIS PR Officer