KINGSTON, Jamaica – Energy costs at the University of the West Indies (UWI) is expected to be slashed by as much as 30 per cent within a year.

The proposed reduction comes as a result of an agreement signed Tuesday between green energy company SEEBURY through their partner SERS and the UWI, Mona, to replace all existing light fixtures and lamps on the campus with LED fixtures with a potential energy bill reduction of as much 30 per cent in the first phase.

The reduction represents millions of dollars in savings annually. Implementation of phase one of the project will begin within the next 30 days. The cost is estimated at approximately U$ 1.5 million and includes replacing the light fixtures within the halls of residence and office buildings, as well as externally on campus, along with installation and maintenance of the fixtures.

Principal of the UWI, Mona campus, Professor Archibald McDonald says reducing its energy bill represents efforts made by the campus to not only move to energy efficient solutions to save money, but also improving the campus’ energy footprint.

“We are keen in identifying cost factors that affect our institution’s budget such as water, security and electricity. The new fixtures will be LED lights and this will bring significant savings for the campus.”

The second phase of the project, which will begin in 2017, will focus on further reducing the energy bill by completing a cogeneration plant which will be combined with installation of more solar panels for green energy production.

Balford Henry