Harnessing Nature: Dominica’s Bold Leap into Geothermal Energy
Dominica is transforming its natural resources into a renewable energy powerhouse! Known as the ”Nature Island”, this Caribbean destination is set to end its dependency on diesel-fueled electricity by leveraging its volcanic landscape. As the tourism sector rebounds post-Hurricane Maria, the government is constructing a 10-megawatt geothermal power plant in the picturesque Roseau Valley, close to Laudat, aimed to be operational by year’s end. This innovative facility will utilize natural underground reservoirs to generate clean electricity — steam from the earth’s depths will power turbines, and the used steam will be reinjected underground, creating a sustainable cycle.
The ambitious initiative, spearheaded by the Dominican government and U.S.-Israeli energy company Ormat Technologies, aims to eliminate diesel electricity by 2030, promising lower electricity bills for its 66,000 residents. Moreover, this geothermal plant will be the second of its kind in the Caribbean, potentially paving the way for exporting surplus electricity to neighboring islands.
Despite the benefits, the project has raised concerns among local environmentalists, who worry about the impact on the historically rich Roseau Valley ecosystem and its wildlife. Moreover, the costs have sparked debate, with the Dominican government investing approximately $15 million amidst post-hurricane recovery.
Ormat, with decades of experience in renewable energy, will manage the plant for 20 years, and it is expected to provide jobs and technological advancements to the local economy. The Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) is also observing Dominica’s endeavor as a potential model for its goal of achieving 30% renewable energy within the next decade, underscoring the region’s commitment to a cleaner, sustainable future.
As the plant nears completion, Dominica positions itself as a leader in geothermal energy, setting an example for other Caribbean nations to follow in their quest for sustainability.