A 36 MW wind farm in Potsdam, St. Elizabeth, is helping to diversify the country’s energy matrix and ease dependence on fossil fuels. The Blue Mountain Renewables (BMR) plant is assisting community schools and local farmers who are affected during the construction phase; additionally, the plant is expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by about 66,000 tons of CO2. Principal of Hampton High Heather Murray is in support of the project, which has already installed 12 solar panels on the roof of the school; they now provide one-fifth of Hampton High’s energy needs. Ms. Murray has informed that the high electricity costs consume much of the school’s budget, monies that could be used to build a state-of-the-art science laboratory. Under a 20-year power purchase agreement, BMR will sell power to the Jamaica Public Service (JPS) Company; electricity is expected to be among the lowest cost sources of power available on the JPS system. The St. Bess plant will be instrumental in helping Jamaica to achieve its target for 30% renewables generation by 2030. The Caribbean Island currently relies on imports to meet 90 of its energy needs.
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http://jamaica-gleaner.com/article/news/20160919/renewable-energy-project-improving-lives-st-bess-residents
