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The Government of Barbados is intensifying efforts to combat climate change and enhance energy diversity by expanding its onshore wind generation capacity, aided by the International Finance Corporation (IFC).
During COP28 in December 2023, Barbados enlisted IFC as a transaction advisor to structure a public-private partnership (PPP) for the Lamberts Wind Farm, projected to generate between 30 to 50 MW. Situated in St. Lucy and St. Peter parishes, the wind farm aims to set a benchmark in sustainable energy development aligned with global standards.
To gain insights for the Lamberts project, in April 2024, the Ministry of Energy and Business (MEB) and IFC organized a visit to the BMR Jamaica Wind Project, a 36 MW onshore wind farm in St. Elizabeth Parish. This tour included Lamberts community representatives alongside officials from MEB, IFC, Barbados Light & Power Company, and National Petroleum Corporation of Barbados.
“Barbados is committed to ambitious climate-smart energy targets, focusing on inclusive development for our communities. Our tour of the BMR wind farm underscores our dedication to harnessing new technologies for economic and environmental gains,” emphasized Lisa R. Cummins, Minister of Energy and Business in Barbados.
The visit included discussions with Jamaican counterparts from Ministry of Science, Energy, Telecommunications and Transport, JPS – Jamaica’s electric utility, and the Office of Utilities Regulation, highlighting strategies to achieve Jamaica’s 50% renewable energy goal by 2030.
“The BMR wind farm tour provided invaluable insights, enabling us to address community concerns and highlight wind energy’s benefits,” noted Anderson Rollock, Community Liaison Officer for the Lamberts Wind Farm project in Barbados.
Ronke-Amoni Ogunsulire, IFC Regional Manager for the Caribbean, underscored IFC’s commitment to Barbados’ renewable energy expansion, emphasizing reduced dependence on imported fuels, enhanced energy security, and lower consumer costs.
IFC’s extensive experience in PPPs spans over 170 projects since 2004, contributing $46 billion in private investment globally. In the Caribbean, IFC’s portfolio includes successful initiatives like the Norman Manley Airport concession and North Coast Highway Project in Jamaica.
The Lamberts Wind Farm project signifies Barbados’ proactive stance in sustainable energy development, aiming to achieve long-term environmental and economic benefits for the nation.
