Jamaica to build 24.5-MW hybrid storage facility

The board of Jamaica Public Service Co Ltd (JPS) has approved a 24.5-MW hybrid energy storage project, Jamaica's sole electricity provider said on Monday.

Pending approval from the Office of Utilities Regulation (OUR), the storage facility will be built at the Hunts Bay Power Plant Substation. It will consist of high-speed and low-speed flywheels and containerised lithium-Ion batteries, and is scheduled to start operations by the third quarter of 2018.

JPS said that the hybrid storage project will be the first of its kind in the Caribbean. The facility will help the grid cope with the increase of renewable energy. It will provide power in case of sudden reductions of solar and wind power output due to interruptions such as cloud cover or lower wind. The facility will also be "a much faster, cost effective and environmentally friendly" alternative to traditional generation back-up, the company said.

JPS also said it is looking to convert more generating units to liquefied natural gas, which will increase flexibility and help to ensure a more reliable, affordable and sustainable service for customers.

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