Dominica could see the completion of its first geothermal power plant by December 2025 as the project has advanced to a new stage in its development.
Recently, a US$38.9 million contract was signed between Dominica Geothermal Development Company Ltd and Indian company, Kalpataru Projects International Development Company.
Energy Minister, Dr Vince Henderson explained: “This company will be constructing ten kilometres of transmission line with substations starting from Laudat into Fond Cole. We’re very excited about that milestone. The company has started mobilising and very shortly we will see actual action on the ground so that construction can begin within the next several weeks.”
Henderson revealed that work has already begun in preparation for the construction of the power plant in Laudat. A local company has been awarded the contract for the groundwork.
He says work has progressed on this project despite challenges with weather conditions.
Conflict in the Middle East has also slowed down the geothermal project as access to equipment and personnel has been impeded, Dr Henderson indicated.
However, the energy minister says by this October all equipment for the powerplant will be on island and construction on Dominica’s first 10-megawatt powerplant will begin.
The completion date is set for December 2025.
In December 2023, the Government of Dominica signed an agreement with Ormat Technologies Inc of Nevada, USA to finance the construction of the plant, and operate and maintain it for 25 years.
Dr Henderson said the project is on schedule and if goes well the plant will be commissioned in early 2026.