KINGSTON, Jamaica – Minister of Science, Energy, Telecommunications and Transport Daryl Vaz, on Tuesday, December 12, presented solar lamps to Members of Parliament (MP) across several constituencies under a pilot project geared towards providing lighting to households without access to electricity islandwide.

This initiative underscores the Government’s commitment to fostering a safe and more sustainable future for every Jamaican household.

Minister Vaz expressed enthusiasm about the initiative, stating that it is a step forward in the Government’s efforts to improve the quality of life for persons living without adequate electricity.

“So, we decided to bring in 10,000 of these solar lamp lights, to be distributed to all 63 MP, pretty much as a pilot project, to see how it works and if it is that we get good feedback from the MPs from the reception of those recipients, then obviously we would ramp up this initiative to bring in more lights… The deep rural MPs will get 200 each, mixed areas will get 160 each, and the urban will get 100 each, of course, we’re targeting those persons who do not have electricity and are using other ways and forms that are not in keeping with good order”, said Minister Vaz.

By providing the MPs with these solar-powered devices, Minister Vaz says it is to inspire positive change and set an example for the broader community, reducing risks to life and property.

“Speaking from a rural perspective and as a Member of Parliament for a Rural Area…despite the fact that it is small, it will be very handy and useful for those persons who are in need. I am hoping that we will get some good feedback within the next month and the Ministry is committed to increasing and ordering as many as we think is necessary to take away the risk of these persons that are using other forms that are not safe”, the Minister further stated.

The solar lamps handed over to Members of Parliament are equipped with solar panels which are integrated into the design. The lamps harness sunlight to generate power, eliminating the need for traditional energy sources and reducing the carbon footprint, as well as, can be charged by USB port.

The Members of Parliament will be responsible for identifying areas in their constituencies and residents who are most needy, then provide feedback to the Ministry of Science, Energy, Telecommunications and Transport to inform the way forward.

As part of the handover ceremony, MP for Western St Andrew, Anthony Hylton, expressed appreciation for the initiative for the vulnerable Jamaicans within his constituency.

“This morning I am here because I want to participate and see just how effective the lamps can be and how far they can go to address some of the problems (faced in the constituency)”, said Hylton. “I want to participate to see how far it goes – what are the shortcomings; what are the strengths – so that we can give the feedback and see how we can work together to resolve what is a genuine issue and a pressing concern for fire and other hazards to households”.

Nevertheless, the Energy Minister concluded the ceremony by expressing confidence in the positive impact of the initiative, saying, “Together, as leaders and stewards of our nation, (we want to) prevent risks and dangers associated with using alternative lighting sources such as kerosene lamps. We can drive change and create a legacy of environmental responsibility. The handover of these solar lamps is a small yet significant step towards a brighter and more sustainable one.”