2 weeks Ago By Chester Robards Senior Business Reporter [email protected]
T he government signed a power purchase agreement (PPA) yesterday with CVB Utilities Company Limited for a 20 megawatt solar field and a five megawatt-hour battery storage system, to be built adjacent to the C.V. Bethel Senior High School.
CEO of CVB and President of the Compass Group Justin Cunningham said during the PPA signing ceremony at the Office of the Prime Minister that the grid-tied solar system will use cutting edge technology and help to strengthen New Providence’s power network. “It is with pride and enthusiasm that CVB Utilities formally accepts the responsibility to execute the solar plus battery project in New Providence, a transformative endeavor that will set a new benchmark for renewable energy development in The Bahamas,” said Cunningham. He added: “This project will not only enhance national energy security, but it will also demonstrate the viability and scalability of utility solar plus storage solutions.
This grid-tied system will export 20 megawatts of power, leveraging cutting edge photovoltaic storage and technology to stabilize, optimize and strengthen the national grid. “The project represents a major step forward toward energy independence and reduced reliance on imported fossil fuels. Having engaged in the Bahamian energy sector for over 20 years, and with over 80 years of collective project experience, the Compass Group has the expertise, strategic foresight, and unwavering dedication to deliver this project to the highest standards.
” Cunningham said the project will also be an opportunity to develop more expertise locally in the field of photovoltaic systems and battery storage. Bahamas Power and Light’s (BPL) Chief Operations Officer Anthony Christie said during the signing ceremony that the new system is designed to provide renewable firming, limit peak load, and improved reliability, which he said is a game changer for balancing energy demand across the grid. “Beyond the numbers, this agreement has real significance to our customers.
What does it mean? It means more locally produced clean energy, reducing our exposure to the volatility of global fuel markets. It means better reliability, with fewer outages and smarter infrastructure.” Prime Minister Philip Davis said during the ceremony that the country continues to move from dependence on fossil fuels to diversification of power sources, and from rental generation to permanent infrastructure.
.
