The Renewable Energy Industry in CARIFORUM Countries

JAMAICA

RENEWABLE ENERGY INDUSTRY STAKEHOLDER ASSESSMENT

3.10.6 | RENEWABLE ENERGY COMPANIES

The energy policy and related regulations fully support the implementation of RE in Jamaica. Their 2030 target of 20% to 30% renewable energy production is low compared tomost other Caribbean territories, but there is enough capacity to fully occupy the RECs since 150MW of new capacity is expected to be installed during this time, along with significant EE interventions. There is an estimated 850MW of potential RE capacity in Jamaica with over 20 registered RECs. They focus mainly on PV design and installation along with auditing and installation of EE equipment. They have on average approximately 5 staff per REC and do outsource some activities to access additional experienced technical resources in order to fulfil their contractual obligations to clients. These RECs have been in business for an average of 5 years. Their scope of operations covers the residential and commercial segments along with Government, the Utility and industrial sector. Some RECs actively export service in and near the Caribbean region including

USA, Mexico and Dominica. One company has an established presence in Cuba.

Their relationship with the other key stakeholders is depicted in the diagram below.

The RECs are not very engaged with the RE industry stakeholders despite a good relationship perception from the HEIs and the LGM. The disparity between the LGM and the RECs perceptions of their relationships may be related to the unfavourable FIT of around $0.11 per KWh set by the regulator who is viewed as part of government and favouring the utility, as well as the perceived inadequate level of support received from government. This impacts the RECs business opportunities negatively since it does not represent an attractive investment environment. There is clearly the need to improve this relationship in order to improve the environment and advance implementation.

LEAD GOVERNMENT MINISTRIES

PRIVATE SECTOR INSTITUTIONS

REGIONAL INSTITUTIONS

RENEWABLE ENERGY COMPANIES

FUNDING AGENCIES

FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS

HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS

UTILITY REGULATOR

Figure 3.52 | Relationships of Jamaica’s Renewable Energy Companies

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The Renewable Energy Industry in CARIFORUM Countries