Why do we need solar panels in Montserrat?

The use of Solar Panels meets one of the Governments priority needs which is to improve energy security by slowly transitioning to renewable energy. The incorporation of Solar into the Grid on Montserrat, resulted in a 13% renewable energy input on the grid, which is 3% above the European Union’s key performance indicator (KPI) of 10% .

What is Montserrat's solar future?

Montserrat’s current solar prospective was split into two phases. Phase one being the 250kW PV system that was commissioned in March 2019 and the second phase, totaling 750kW with 1.088 MWh battery storage is now underway. The system will provide 44% of the island’s peak demand and just over 13% of total annual electricity generation.

Who has installed a 250kW solar PV project in Montserrat?

The awarding of a contract to Salt Energy Company for the installation of a 250KW Solar PV Project in 2018 as the first phase 250KW Solar photovoltaic (PV) Project. The solar PV system was successfully installed and commissioned by the Salt Energy Company and handed over to the Government of Montserrat in March of 2019.

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.

What is Montserrat's energy policy?

The first Energy Policy was approved in 2008 by the Government of Montserrat. The policy was then revised and updated in 2016 to include Government incentives and to update the policy with appropriate targets. The new Energy Policy (The Power to Change) that is currently being implemented runs from 2016 to 2030. Progress made so far includes: –

Why should Montserrat buy a new electric vehicle?

The purchase of the vehicle supports the Government’s aim to promote the development of electric, hybrid electric and advance vehicle technologies for Montserrat. A pilot project was commissioned to review the performance of the technology under local conditions and get feedback of driver’s acceptability.