GRAND BAHAMA – Lucayas Solar Power Ltd, in collaboration with key partners, celebrated the commissioning ceremony of the Fairfield Solar Plant on Monday, April 29, 2024. The event marked the culmination of extensive efforts and partnerships aimed at bringing clean and sustainable energy solutions to the island of Grand Bahama.
With a commitment to harnessing solar power to combat climate change and promote environmental stewardship, Lucayas Solar Power Ltd, in partnership with the Grand Bahama Power Company, IDB Invest, the private sector arm of the Inter-American Development Bank Group. The Grand Bahama Port Authority, Inti Corporation, and the Government of the Bahamas have spearheaded the development and implementation of this innovative project.
“Today is a landmark day for Lucayas Solar Power Ltd. and for all of Grand Bahama. This commissioning ceremony is the realization of a shared vision and collaborative effort,” said Jorge Marquez, President of Lucayas Solar Power Ltd. “
The commissioning of the Fairfield Solar Site is not just the realization of a project but the beginning of a transformation in how we power our island. From the outset, we have been committed to leveraging the expertise and resources of our partners to create a lasting impact on the environment and the community.”
The journey to commissioning has been marked by significant milestones and achievements. Groundbreaking in March 2023 signaled the beginning of construction at the 15-acre Fairfield site. Since then, Lucayas Solar Power Ltd, with the support of its partners, has made progress in erecting the solar panel foundations, clearing and preparing the land, and ensuring adherence to the highest standards of environmental sustainability and efficiency.
“The IDB is committed to supporting sustainable development in The Bahamas, and the Fairfield Solar Site, along with the Devon site, are prime examples of this commitment in action. These projects not only contribute to the environmental goals of the islands but also offer economic benefits by reducing energy costs, creating jobs, and ensuring gender inclusion,” said Daniela Carrera Marquis, the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) Country Representative.
“We are proud to have played a role in bringing this transformative project to fruition, a project that underscores the importance of innovative and sustainable solutions in addressing the challenges of climate change. This project serves as a model for future endeavours in renewable energy development.”
“The partnership between Lucayas Solar Power Ltd, the Grand Bahama Power Company, IDB Invest, The Grand Bahama Port Authority, Inti Corporation, and the Government of the Bahamas has been instrumental in driving progress and overcoming challenges throughout the project’s developmental and implementation lifecycle,” said Owen Bethel, CEO of Inti Corporation Ltd., the EPC contractor responsible for the construction and operation of the project.
“Together, we have demonstrated a shared commitment to advancing environmental sustainability, economic development, and energy security in The Bahamas. The completion of the Fairfield site is a testament to what we can achieve through cooperation and commitment, and our partnerships have set a new standard for energy projects in the Commonwealth of The Bahamas. We are dedicated to continuing this path of innovation and excellence.”
As the Fairfield Solar Site comes on stream, its pioneers expect it to contribute significantly to the country’s diversification of energy sources, reduce dependency on fossil fuels, and create new opportunities for economic growth and job creation on Grand Bahama Island.
“Moreover, it represents a tangible step towards achieving the nation’s climate goals and fulfilling its commitments to global environmental stewardship,” a press release noted.
