Jamaica's energy system is highly dependent on imported fossil fuels with petroleum imports accounting for over 80% of electricity production. These oil imports come at a considerable cost, translating to substantial annual expenses and resulting in high electricity bills incurred by consumers. Renewable energy investments in public health institutions could support Jamaica in its ambitious goal of generating 50% of its electricity supply from renewable sources by 2030. The island’s current installed capacity is 1,041MW with approximately 17% renewables (wind, hydro, and solar), and the rest currently all thermoelectric. This target will require an estimated investment of 1.2bn USD by 2030.
In a transformative journey towards a just energy transition, the Rehab Centre Hospital, a leading medical facility catering to persons with physical disabilities in Jamaica, has set an inspiring example by embracing solar power solutions. Driven by the vision of sustainability and a greener future, the Centre has successfully harnessed the power of solar energy to cut energy costs and reduce dependence on fossil fuels. “We normally don’t get everything we ask for in terms of a budget. So, energy savings help us meet the basic demands,” says Dr Dixon, Senior Medical Officer at the Centre. With the installation of a grid-tied solar photovoltaic (PV) system, coupled with the replacement of all incandescent bulbs with energy-efficient LEDs, the Rehab Centre is on target to generate over 50% in excess of the annual 10 000-kWh projected before installation. The hospital's adoption of renewable solar power has not only reduced its reliance on expensive imported fuels but also unlocked substantial savings that are being channeled towards critical healthcare infrastructure and services. Previously burdened by volatile fossil fuel prices and escalating energy costs, the Centre's energy shift now empowers it to extend medical services to underserved communities.
Read the full SEH Bulletin 2.
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