Barbuda Launches Construction Phase of its Energy Resilience Project
CODRINGTON, Barbuda - Barbuda has launched the construction phase of its energy resilience project that is aimed at increasing the resilience of the electricity distribution network on the island by providing hybrid solar systems on key public buildings and improving the population’s level of access to modern electricity services.
The initiative is being funded by the United Kingdom government and the CARICOM Development Fund (CDF) in partnership with the Barbados-based Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) and the Antigua and Barbuda government.
“The Barbuda Resilience Project aims to address vulnerabilities on the island by establishing a more robust distribution system and ensuring greater reliability of the energy supply to public facilities,” CDB’s director of Projects, Daniel Best said at the launch on Thursday.
“Beyond modernizing electrical infrastructure, employment opportunities will also be created during the construction and rehabilitation phase of the project contributing to overall economic activity,” he added.
The Resident British Commissioner to Antigua and Barbuda, Lindsy Thompson, said the United Kingdom understands how pivotal the project is for Barbuda’s revitalization, recovery, and sustainability, especially after the devastation caused by Hurricane Irma in 2017 and the ever-looming consequences of climate change which we face.
“We are proud to be providing £2.89 million (EC$9.7 million) in grant funding for this project, which will deliver real and tangible benefits for the people of Barbuda.”
In addition to providing critical infrastructure, the project will also safeguard some of the most vulnerable households and strengthen the capacity of the public and private sectors to effectively function and provide services to clients.
Minister of Information, Communication Technologies, Utilities and Energy, Melford Nicholas, said the Gaston Browne government is pleased with the social and economic prospects as well as the opportunities for the residents of Barbuda which will result from the provision of modern electricity services.
Works have now begun to move key electricity supply lines underground to reduce vulnerability to high winds. In a few weeks, solar power systems will be installed on the Hanna Thomas Hospital, the Community Centre and the Barbuda Council building.
There is also a Reconnection Support Program underway for residents who remain disconnected from the energy network following Hurricane Irma. The entire project is expected to be completed by December 2023.
