The Commonwealth of Dominica is poised to achieve a significant renewable energy milestone with the imminent commissioning of its state-of-the-art geothermal power plant in Laudat. Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit confirmed during a recent press conference that the facility has successfully completed testing phases and is expected to become operational by the end of March.
The 10-megawatt facility, representing a substantial investment of US$34.8 million, will establish Dominica as the first Caribbean Community (CARICOM) nation to harness geothermal energy at this scale. Situated in the volcanic-rich Roseau Valley, the plant utilizes the island’s natural geothermal resources to provide clean, reliable electricity to approximately 23,000 households.
This groundbreaking project, developed through a public-private partnership under the Dominica Geothermal Development Company (DGDC), marks a strategic shift from fossil fuel dependency toward sustainable energy solutions. The plant’s commissioning aligns with the broader OECS Decade of Action for Sustainable Energy Development initiative, which aims to source at least 30% of the region’s electricity from renewables by 2035.
As part of the OECS GEOBUILD Programme supported by the Caribbean Development Bank, Dominica joins four other member states in pioneering geothermal exploration and development across the Eastern Caribbean. This project not only enhances Dominica’s energy security but also establishes a replicable model for neighboring islands seeking to utilize their volcanic potential for sustainable development.