NASSAU, Bahamas, (CMC) – A heads of agreement has been signed in the Bahamas for the development of the country’s first fully sustainable zero carbon solar-powered residential and yacht resort community in the Exuma Cays.

During the recent signing of the agreement, Prime Minister Philip Davis said Kiama Bahamas, to be powered by Silent Resorts, is a US$56 million development and is a very significant step forward in the country’s sustainable luxury product.

“The 36-acre development on Elizabeth Island will be completely sustainable featuring a two-acre protected marina, six private beaches, 28 solar powered residences, and resort amenities like a beach club, restaurants, and pools. Even the yachts will be solar-powered, and they will be operated by Bahamians,” he said.

“For the beautiful Exuma Cays, Kiama is poised to become one of the most sought-after sustainable resorts in the region. Kiama will also be a welcome addition to the growth of the Bahamian economy, creating long-term sustainable employment for many Bahamians.

“The construction phase of the project is projected to employ between 40 and 50 Bahamians and (the) resort will employ 75 permanent staff once it opens,” he added.

One of the managing partners, John Long, who is also the president of the development, said work on the island is expected to start in the next month or two and they will have an early opening before the end of the year.

“The entire development is sustainable in that very light touch. We’re not putting in big foundations or pouring lots of concrete on the island. Everything is pure and green above the bluffs. We’re protecting the bluff. We’re protecting the environment,” said Long.

“We’re preserving the natural fauna on the island. Very limited with respect to the roads that we’re putting through. There will be natural materials, you know crushed stone. And even the swimming pools that we put on the development — they’re recycled shipping containers. So, we’re not digging holes and pouring concrete, which is really destructive to the natural environment,” Long noted.