ABU DHABI, UAE — Dominica’s Energy Minister Vince Henderson has issued a cautious warning to fellow small island developing states (SIDS) regarding geothermal energy development, emphasizing that such projects require robust international partnerships to overcome significant financial and technical hurdles.
Speaking at a ministerial roundtable during the 16th Assembly of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), Henderson expressed both excitement and apprehension about geothermal potential. “I’m tempted to tell my colleagues from small island developing states, ‘Don’t do this; it’s too expensive’,” he revealed during the “Geothermal Heat and Power – Building a Resilient Energy Backbone” discussion.
Despite his reservations, Henderson confirmed that Dominica is preparing to launch commercial operations at a 10-megawatt geothermal plant in the Roseau Valley this March, following nearly two decades of development. This milestone was only achievable through extensive international collaboration, including critical support from the European Union, which facilitated initial test drilling in 2011 through partnerships with Guadeloupe and Martinique.
Additional technical and financial assistance came from a consortium including the United Kingdom, Iceland, the World Bank, New Zealand, and the Clinton Global Initiative. Henderson stressed that such partnerships were essential for cost reduction, specialized expertise, and navigating complex legislative frameworks.
The minister outlined multiple challenges facing SIDS in geothermal development: prohibitive drilling costs, inadequate transmission infrastructure, project guarantee difficulties, climatic vulnerabilities including hurricane risks, and managing community expectations. He particularly emphasized the need for grants and special facilities to help member states de-risk resource assessment phases.
Henderson also highlighted the importance of community engagement, recalling initial local opposition that required diplomatic intervention. While communities have since become project supporters, new challenges await in managing expectations for electricity price reductions once the plant becomes operational.
The minister acknowledged IRENA’s active role in promoting geothermal development but called for more comprehensive support systems for vulnerable nations pursuing renewable energy transitions.