NIC to Expand Renewable Energy Investments

Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining, Hon. Floyd Green, says the National Irrigation Commission (NIC) will continue to invest in renewable energy systems to reduce costs and provide farmers with more affordable irrigation water.

He noted that electricity is the NIC’s largest operational cost.

“So, if we want to ensure that we can continue to provide you [farmers] with the water at a reasonable price, then we have to treat with reducing our costs,” he said.

Minister Green was speaking at the recent commissioning of a $54 million solar energy system at the Beacon F2 Pump Station in St. Elizabeth.

The 200-kilowatt renewable energy scheme, which has been in operation since 2024, forms part of the Ministry’s thrust to improve the efficiency and sustainability of agricultural irrigation. It has already saved the NIC some $14.5 million in electricity costs.

Minister Green said that the system was damaged during the passage of Hurricane Beryl and work was done to strengthen the infrastructure.

“The good news is that Hurricane Melissa came but caused no damage to the renewable energy system based on the work done to make it more resilient,” he said.

The commissioning of the solar system represents the first phase of the renewable energy development at the Beacon F2 Pump Station. Further upgrades include a new inverter room, security lighting and closed-circuit television (CCTV) surveillance. The plan is for the facility to operate independent of the national grid.

State Minister in the Ministry and Member of Parliament for St. Elizabeth South Eastern, Hon. Franklin Witter, underscored the significance of the investment in boosting agricultural production in the ‘breadbasket’ parish.

He lauded the NIC and the technical teams that played a part in strengthening the irrigation infrastructure.

“The contribution by our farmers deserves the infrastructure, support and investment necessary to help continue the growth of agriculture in these parts,” he stated.

The commissioning ceremony included the handover of land titles to beneficiaries under the Pedro Plains Irrigation Expansion Project.