KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Jamaica Public Service Company (JPS) is reporting that a Fresh Water Study is now being undertaken in preparation for the development of the new Maggotty power plant in St Elizabeth.

JPS is investing roughly US$33 million in the construction of the power plant, which says is the largest investment in hydropower in Jamaica since independence.

The study, JPS said, is in keeping with requirements of the National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA).

According JPS the exercise is a baseline study of the flora and fauna in the environs earmarked for the hydroelectric power plant, and will measure any permanent impact the construction may have on the environment.

The preparation work for the Maggotty Hydroelectric Power Station, is proceeding on schedule, and will add 6.3MW of power to the national grid, when it is commissioned in 2013, JPS said in a release.

This will bring the number of hydroelectric power plants being operated by JPS to nine.