TWO years after getting a facelift, the Above Rocks Health Centre in St Catherine received a solar power energy system, which will aid in reducing utility costs at the facility.

The project was done through partnership of the Federal Republic of Germany and the Heart Foundation of Jamaica (HFJ) at a cost of US$8,700.

The solar system consists of nine solar panels, eight batteries, converters and a battery charging machine.

Manager of the Above Rocks Health Centre Nurse Johanna Burgher told the Jamaica Observer that the solar panel system will make a big difference at the facility which operates from small income as it accommodates people who are from low socio-economic backgrounds.

“It was expensive and since this health centre is not really making a lot of money, because the patients I treat here don’t really have so much money, I keep the costs very low,” Burgher said after the unveiling ceremony for the solar system on Thursday.

“This really takes a lot of burden from our shoulders and even people who come and charge their phones now, I can tell them to go ahead because I am not paying for it. Even when I get the dental chairs with a basin, water suction, drill and light, the solar system will already be enough for my stuff to come. I am very happy that I have the solar system now,” she added.

Executive director of HFJ Deborah Chen said funds that would usually be used to pay electricity bills can now help to purchase additional medical supplies.

“The current donation of the German Embassy is really critical because as a non-profit clinic there are minimal fees for the services. But, of course, bills still have to be paid, we still have to buy the medical supplies, maintain the building and we have to pay utility bills,” said Chen.

“With the donation of the solar panels, we got to the point where we don’t have to pay monthly pills and now that money can go towards medicine, dressings and the other medical supplies to run the clinic. It is very major for us and we are very grateful for the donations,” she added.

Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany to Jamaica Jan Henrik van Theil added, “It makes me so happy that today we have solar panels. It might be a small unit, but it is a small piece to the big solution for the progress of this island. This island is perfect for energy transition.”

The health facility serves residents of Above Rocks and neighbouring communities including Barnett district, Retirement and Harkers Hall on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.

In 2021, the facility got a $2.7-million renovation including re-roofing, installation of new floor tiles, electrical rewiring, new windows, doors, bathroom upgrade, and procurement of new furniture.