KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Government is to undertake an expansion of the Wigton Windfarm in Rose Hill, Manchester, which is projected to reduce the importation of oil by some 37,100  barrels and save approximately J$400 million.

Making the announcement, State Minister in the Ministry of Science, Technology, Mining and Energy, Julian Robinson, said that the expanded facility will produce 63,072 Megawatt hours per year.

Robinson also outlined other renewable energy ventures being undertaken by government.

“The Petroleum Corporation of Jamaica  (PCJ), is also collaborating with the Ministry of Agriculture on biofuels research to identify plants that can be cultivated locally, which can be converted into fuels,” he said, while delivering the opening address at a two-day PCJ  Alternative Energy Expo, held Monday, June 23, at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel in New Kingston.

“This would have positive implications for our farmers, who would have new income earning opportunities, and for players in our transport sector, who would have a more affordable alternative to imported fuel,” Robinson added.

He said that in its quest to promote alternative energy, the Government in 2012, removed General Consumption Tax (GCT), from renewable energy systems, and in 2013, suspended the Common External Tariff on selected pieces of machinery and equipment commonly used in the industry.