Jamaica’s process to supply 100 megawatts (MW) of renewable energy has advanced to the Request For Proposals (RFP) stage.

Some 42 companies submitted expressions of interest, which is a precursor to submission of a RFP for the 20-year Private Power Agreements (PPAs). The government’s Generation Procurement Entity (GPE) will publish license and PPA forms and open registration in October.

Bids are due January 25, 2024 through February 1, 2024. Offers will be opened on the latter date. Having submitted an expression of interest is not a condition for participating in the RFP.

The GPE has explained that independent power producers can only sell output to electricity to Jamaica Public Service (JPS), which also may participate in the RFP. JPS’s potential participation has raised concern among some stakeholders, which sees such an eventuality as manifesting an unfair advantage.

According to the RFP, solar projects much achieve commercial operation within 24 months and other technologies within 30 months. A second tranche for 168MW is planned for later next year.

The country’s renewable energy target is 50% by 2030. Current installed capacity reaches 1,041MW, of which 83% is thermal, primarily natural gas, and the remainder renewables (wind, hydro and solar).