Bahamas News
BAHAMAS: Solar Farm Underway On Ragged Island
#Nassau, December 13, 2019 – Bahamas – The first solar panels for the Ragged Island Microgrid are in the ground already, and the solar farm is rapidly taking shape on the island as Bahamas Power and Light Company Limited (BPL) moves forward with construction of its first solar and battery storage solution, at a cost of around $3M. We are on schedule to be able to have the first solar power to the Ragged Island grid by the end of January 2020.
BPL Director of Grid Solutions and Support Services Burlington Strachan said, “Currently, the solar field site preparation is 50% complete, including the clearing of the interconnection line access roadway. The installation of solar panels is underway. All of the panels and mounting hardware for the installation are on site. Work has not yet started at the at the Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) site, but will begin as the solar field nears completion.”
All of the panels and mounting hardware for the installation are on site and the installation of solar panels is underway
Strachan acknowledged that the end of January 2020 is a little later than originally planned, but pointed out that the schedule of the project was affected by the impact Dorian had on key suppliers and sub-contractors associated with the project.
The engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contract for the Ragged Island tender was awarded to Tugliq Energy Co. and its construction partner, SALT Energy in July. The selected design is focused on providing the island with over 90% renewable energy for most of the year, achieving a significant reduction in the island’s former diesel consumption. The design is comprised of a 390 kWp, 180-mph wind load resistant solar array and a 1.26MWh Battery Energy Storage System (BESS).
Strachan talked about what it would mean to have this installation up and running, relative to power production for Ragged Island.
“What we are doing on Ragged Island is not quite the conventional microgrid arrangement. Here, we are integrating energy produced by a solar field with a BESS and existing conventional energy resources on the island. Ultimately, based on the energy needs of Ragged Island prior to the impact of Hurricane Irma, this installation will result in over 90% of the energy needs of the island being met by the system. Indeed, while the island continues to recover, it is possible 100% of the current needs could be met,” he said.
Our plan is for the Ragged Island Microgrid to stand as a successful initial project that can ultimately be modified, scaled and replicated to provide “right fit” solutions on other islands. This project cost approximately $3 million.
However, this expenditure will be offset by fuel savings, significantly reduced emissions, other economic and social benefits, and ultimately a lower levelized cost of energy that will benefit all BPL customers, as the number of such projects increases and the combined benefits of all those projects are realized.
We at BPL see this project on Ragged Island as another step in our plan to increase the use of renewable energy (RE) sources in the country’s energy mix. Like our Small Scale Renewable Generation (SSRG) Program (also headed by Mr. Strachan) which gives customers the option of installing grid-tied RE systems, the Ragged Island Microgrid shows the company’s commitment to supporting the national energy goal of 30% renewable energy penetration by 2030.
Release: BPL
This is the sixth edition of the relays and the fourth time that The Bahamas has hosted the event, which actually made its debut in The Bahamas in 2014.
President, World Athletics, Sabastian Coe said after three very successful editions from 2014 to 2017, the World Athletics Relays has quickly become one of the World Athletics vibrant competitions, developing a culture of fun and innovation that gives it a unique flavour.
He thanked the Bahamas Government, the local World Athletics Relays Bahamas 24 committee and the Bahamian people for agreeing to host the relays. However, his main thanks were to the “world’s best sprinters” travelling from all the continents to compete in preparation for the road to Paris, France, in two months’ time.
During the opening ceremony, the athletes were given words of advice from Carl Lewis, one of only four Olympic athletes to have won nine Olympic gold medals, who is widely recognized as one of the greatest athletes of all time.
He said, “Keep it simple, do not try to do anything extra. Do what your coaches said. Leave on time, leave on time, leave on time.”
The athletes and crowds were treated to the sounds and sights of Junkanoo at the end of the opening ceremony. The Junkanoo performers stuck around for the two days of competitions, playing for the sprinters as they competed on the track.
Teams competed in the Women’s and men’s 4x100m, and the women’s men’s and mixed 4x400m. A total of 14 teams at the World Athletics Relays Bahamas 24 automatically qualified for places at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Both days of competition were important, as day two offered another chance for qualifications for those teams unsuccessful on day one.
Bahamians were made proud as the country set a new national record during the mixed 4x400m relays thanks to the efforts of 16-year-old Shania Adderley, a student of Tabernacle Baptist Academy.
The team came first in their heat on Sunday evening after not being able to gain a spot for the Paris Olympics on the first day of competition.
Other sprinters on the team included Alonzo Russell, as well as Olympic champions Steven Gardiner and Shaunae Miller-Uibo.
NASSAU, The Bahamas – During his remarks at the Opening Ceremony for the World Athletics Relays 2024, on May 4, Prime Minister and Minister of Finance the Hon. Philip Davis welcomed the special guests, athletes, officials, and “all lovers of athletics from around the world” to the Thomas A. Robinson National Stadium here in the “vibrant heart” of Nassau, Bahamas.
“This weekend, the world’s finest athletes gather on our shores to embark on a journey that is not only about speed and strength but also about dreams and determination,” Prime Minister Davis said. “From the serene beauty of our islands to the historic grandeur of Paris, this event marks a crucial path to the Olympic Games in Paris 2024.”
He added: “Here in The Bahamas, we are no strangers to world-class athletics or the warmth and exuberance that such international gatherings bring. It is a distinct honor to once again welcome the World Athletics Relays back to our islands. This event holds a special place in our hearts, symbolizing a bridge between nations brought together by the universal language of sport.”
Prime Minister Davis noted that that year’s theme, “Paradise to Paris,” captured the essence of that journey.
“It is here, amidst the splendor of our sun-kissed beaches and the rhythmic sway of our palms that the chase towards Olympic glory begins anew,” he stated. “We are thrilled to offer a backdrop of unparalleled beauty, where every sprint, every baton pass, and every victory lap is set against the picture-perfect canvas of our islands.”
He added: “To our athletes, I say this: as you stand on the precipice of your dreams, ready to catapult yourself into the annals of history, know that you are part of a legacy of excellence and determination. This weekend, you are not only competitors but also ambassadors of your countries and the spirit of sport. We are especially proud of Team Bahamas, who carry the weight of their performance and the hopes and pride of our nation. You embody the spirit of The Bahamian people, and we are behind you every step of the way.”
Prime Minister said that to the international visitors, he extended “the warmest Bahamian welcome”.
“Over the next few days, as you revel in the thrill of competition, take a moment to bask in the beauty of our island,” he stated. “Discover why we proudly say, “It’s Better in The Bahamas.” Whether it’s the hospitality of our people, the tranquility of our waters, or the rhythm of our culture, you are in for an experience that captures the heart and rejuvenates the soul.”
“Let us celebrate the unity and friendship that sports foster, cheering every athlete and savoring the spectacle of human potential at its best,” Prime Minister Davis added. “I hope the races are swift, the results are inspiring, and the memories are lasting.
“Welcome to The Bahamas, the paradise where champions chase their dreams to Paris. As your host, it is my immense pleasure to declare the World Athletics Relays Bahamas 2024 officially open. Let the games begin.”
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