Could geothermal power Montserrat?

From 2012 until 2017, Montserrat made a push towards geothermal as a potential source for powering the island. Geothermal was the Government of Montserrat’s (GoM) first thrust into implementing renewable energy (RE) technology. To date, the government has drilled three wells, namely MON1, MON2 & MON3.

How much does electricity cost in Montserrat?

Montserrat’s utility rates start at $0.53 per kilowatt-hour (kWh) for residential customers, which is above the Caribbean regional average of $0.33/kWh. Like many island nations, Montserrat is almost entirely dependent on imported fossil fuels, leaving it vulnerable to global oil price fluctuations that directly impact the cost of electricity.

How much energy will Mon1 & MON2 provide Montserrat?

Despite issues with MON3 which experienced a collapse around 1,500m; it is estimated that MON1 & MON2 could provide Montserrat with approximately 3 to 4MW of energy. This was confirmed from an “Early Market Engagement (EME) – Report,” organised by the MCWLE.

Does Montserrat need less capital expenditure?

The Task Force noted that thanks to Montserrat’s development partners, the Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), “we have reached a point of low-risk factor and the need for less capital expenditure (CAPEX).” The island, they said, had adequate test data to attract further investment.