FortisTCI, the energy provider in the Turks and Caicos Islands, is making significant strides in constructing the country's first utility-scale solar plus battery microgrid on its property in Kew, North Caicos. The project began last year and has reached a critical milestone, with installation of the solar PV system now underway.
This multimillion-dollar project marks FortisTCI's single largest investment in renewable energy. Once completed, the microgrid will have a capacity of 1.2 megawatts and is expected to meet 30% of the energy needs for North and Middle Caicos, providing savings for customers over time as utility regulations evolve. The microgrid will be a ground-mounted solar energy system and the largest solar photovoltaic installation in the TCI.
The system will produce approximately 1.9 GWh of green energy per annum. This green production is equivalent to 132,684 US gallons of fuel avoided or 1,400 metric tons of CO2e avoided per annum. According to the project's timeline, solar PV installation is on track for completion this year. The battery energy storage system, which will support the solar PV system, is set for the completion early next year. The solar plus battery microgrid on Salt Cay will be launched next year. When completed, this system will provide 91% of the island's energy demand.
Introducing utility-scale microgrids is a significant step forward for the country, offering numerous benefits for consumers, the economy, and the environment. The continued integration of solar energy into the grid will reduce the reliance on fuel for electricity generation, lowering electricity costs over time as the regulatory framework adapts. Additionally, the shift towards low-carbon energy sources supports FortisTCI's commitment to reducing its carbon footprint.
FortisTCI President and CEO Ruth Forbes stated: “Our energy investment strategy is grounded in data from independent technical studies and focuses on achieving an optimal energy mix, with at least 33% renewable energy by 2040. The Twin Islands solar plus battery microgrid is a significant project in our energy transition, and we are proud of the progress made thus far. As we advance this project, it is essential that renewable energy legislation advance in tandem to ensure alignment with the necessary utility-level investments to benefit customers and meet the country's renewable energy goals. The regulatory framework and supporting legislation governing the energy sector are crucial as they directly impact the scale, pace, and structure of renewable energy development in the Turks and Caicos Islands.”
