(CMC) — The Dominica government says it will commission its 10-megawatt geothermal power plant next month, as the country continues with efforts to transition to a cleaner, more resilient energy sector.
Finance Minister, Dr Irving McIntyre, who on Tuesday successfully piloted a motion seeking supplementary estimates totalling over EC$108.5 million (One EC dollar=US$0.37 cents), told legislators that commercial operations are projected to start in the first week of March 2026.
He said that this would position the facility as a key component in reducing energy costs and strengthening Dominica’s renewable energy infrastructure.
“This landmark project not only represents a major step towards our renewable energy agenda, but also underscores this government’s commitment to reducing energy costs, strengthening energy security and fostering economic growth for the people of Dominica.
“We are reminded that in addition to government’s investment in geothermal power exploration and infrastructure, government is investing a first phase of high voltage resilient distribution network which will connect the geothermal power plant and DOMLEC’s (Dominica Electricity Services) three hydro power stations to the Fond Cole distribution hub.”
McIntyre said that this would ensure the transportation of the grade and renewable energy supply from the Roseau Valley to the facility from which it will be distributed to consumers.
He said to support this venture, additional loan funds amounting to EC1.18 million had been drawn from the World Bank loan for the transmission network that had been approved by Parliament.
“This project is expected to be completed in time for the commercial operation of the geothermal power plant,” he added.
The World Bank has provided loan and grant funding for Dominica’s geothermal development through projects including the Dominica Geothermal Risk Mitigation Project.
Initial funding included an International Development Association (IDA) credit of US$17.2 million, but other funding sources, like grants from the United Kingdom and the Clean Technology Fund, have also been crucial to the overall US$51.45 million financing package. These funds are supporting the development of geothermal power plants, strengthening the grid and assessing export potential.
The Dominica government has said that the geothermal development project is expected to play a central role in the country’s vision of becoming the first climate-resilient nation powered by sustainable energy.
