The UAE-Caribbean Renewable Energy Fund (UAE-CREF) announced that the hurricane-resistant power project developed by Masdar for Antigua and Barbuda to withstand even the fiercest winds, is now operational.
In the aftermath of Hurricane Irma's devastation in 2017, which displaced Barbuda's 1,800 residents to Antigua, a climate-resistant power plant has been inaugurated on Barbuda. Designed to withstand 265 km-per-hour winds, the hybrid solar, battery, and backup diesel project ensures a safe, reliable, and sustainable power supply for the island. Supporting Antigua and Barbuda's goal to achieve 86 percent renewable energy by 2030, the Green Barbuda project, developed by Masdar under UAE-CREF, received full financing from the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development. The US$50 million UAE-CREF, launched in 2017, is the region's largest renewable energy investment, with additional funding from New Zealand, Antigua and Barbuda, and the CARICOM Development Fund.
Mohamed Saif Al Suwaidi, Director-General of ADFD, hails the UAE-CREF's success in driving a significant energy transformation in Antigua and Barbuda. The project addresses the country's heavy reliance on fossil fuel imports, showcasing the potential of clean energy for socioeconomic development. ADFD aims to accelerate the global energy transition, emphasizing the UAE's commitment to a low-carbon future.
Sultan Al Shamsi, Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs, applauds the project's contribution to sustainable development in the Caribbean, aligning with the UAE's leadership in foreign aid and climate action. Antigua and Barbuda's Prime Minister Gaston Browne expresses gratitude, highlighting the project's transformative impact on Barbuda's renewable energy utilization.
Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, CEO of Masdar, emphasizes the project's significance in providing clean energy and supporting economic growth in Antigua and Barbuda.
The bespoke project combines a hybrid solar photovoltaic (PV) plant, featuring 720 kilowatts-peak (kWp) of solar PV panels, connected to an 863 kilowatt-hour (kWh) battery, and capable of fully meeting the island’s current daytime energy demand. The plant will enable Barbuda to reduce annual diesel fuel consumption by 406,000 litres and cut carbon dioxide emissions by over 1 million kg.
The UAE-CREF initiative intends to deploy renewable energy projects in 16 Caribbean countries in three cycles to reduce energy costs, increase energy access, and enhance climate resilience. Projects have already been successfully launched in the Bahamas, Barbados, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
