A new energy efficiency and solar energy project – expected to reduce the electricity cost to pulbic schools by up to 70 per cent – is one step closer to coming online. A bidder has been selected for the Schools Energy Efficiency and Solar Energy Public-Private Partnership pilot project, and is now awaiting final approval from the Cabinet.
“The Development Bank of Jamaica (DBJ) tendered this opportunity in 2018 and a preferred bidder has been identified and this is now subject to the approval of Cabinet,” DBJ Managing Director Milverton Reynolds informed at an MPC Renewable Energy Forum held on Tuesday at the Spanish Court Hotel in New Kingston. The energy project, which will involve the use of photovoltaic solar systems to generate cheaper electricity in 30 selected high schools across the island, is costing the Government $120 million. The National Education Trust Limited is responsible for implementing the project.
Some of the targets under the project include complete upgrade, repair and retrofitting of roofs with solar systems at schools that have already been assessed; the payment of fees to DBJ of approximately $15 million, and the development of a business case and Cabinet approval to proceed to the transaction stage of the PPP.
