Dear Editor,

The recent passage of Hurricane Beryl has once again highlighted the vulnerability of our energy infrastructure. For over three days countless families were left in the dark, cut off from communication and essential services.

While our power service provider has worked tirelessly to restore electricity, the magnitude of the challenge underscores a pressing need: We must diversify and strengthen our energy sources to ensure resilience and continuity, especially in the face of natural disasters. One of the most promising solutions — solar energy — lies right above us.

Solar power offers a reliable, sustainable, and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional energy sources. By harnessing the abundant sunlight that bathes our island nation, we can reduce our dependence on centralised power grids and create a more resilient energy network. Countries like Germany, Australia, and Japan have demonstrated the vast potential of solar energy. Germany, for instance, has become a global leader in solar power, generating a significant portion of its electricity from solar panels. Similarly, Australia’s vast solar farms and rooftop installations have allowed it to become one of the top solar-powered countries, providing a robust model for energy resilience. Japan, following the Fukushima disaster, has heavily invested in solar energy, ensuring that it can meet its energy needs sustainably and securely.

The resilience and reliability of solar energy cannot be overstated. Hurricanes and other natural disasters can wreak havoc on centralised power systems, leaving large swathes of the population without electricity for extended periods. Solar energy systems, especially when paired with battery storage, can provide continuous power even when the main grid is down. This decentralisation of energy sources means that homes with solar panels are less likely to experience prolonged outages, ensuring that families remain connected and safe during emergencies.

Solar energy offers significant savings for citizens. While the initial installation cost of solar panels can be high, the long-term savings are substantial. Solar energy reduces monthly electricity bills and, in many cases, can eliminate them altogether. By providing better incentives for solar adoption, the Government can make these systems more affordable for the average consumer. Tax credits, rebates, and low-interest loans for solar installations can significantly reduce the financial burden and encourage more households to invest in this sustainable technology.

The environmental benefits of solar energy are equally compelling. Solar power is a clean, renewable energy source that reduces our carbon footprint and helps combat climate change. By increasing the adoption of solar energy, we can decrease our reliance on fossil fuels, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and contribute to a healthier environment for future generations. This aligns with global sustainability goals and positions Jamaica as a leader in renewable energy initiatives.

Moreover, the growth of the solar energy sector can stimulate the economy by creating jobs in manufacturing, installation, maintenance, and research. Training programmes and partnerships with local educational institutions can equip our workforce with the necessary skills, fostering economic development and providing new career opportunities. This mirrors the success seen in countries like China, where the solar industry has created millions of jobs and propelled economic growth.

To ensure that the benefits of solar energy are accessible to everyone, the Government must implement policies that address the cost barrier. Varying installation costs based on household income, providing subsidies for low-income families, and promoting community solar projects are crucial steps. These measures can make solar energy an attractive and viable option for a broader segment of the population, allowing more citizens to ‘shine with solar’.

In light of the challenges posed by natural disasters and the ongoing need for a reliable and sustainable energy supply, it is imperative that the Government takes proactive steps to promote solar energy adoption. By providing better incentives and making installation costs more manageable, we can empower our citizens to harness the power of the sun. Together we can build a more resilient, sustainable, and prosperous future for Jamaica. Let’s embrace solar energy and ensure that no family is left in the dark again.

Leroy Fearon Jr

leroy.fearon85@gmail.com