KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Jamaican Government has initiated a comprehensive National Energy Poverty Reduction programme, targeting approximately 2,700 households in its initial phase. Announced by Minister of Energy, Transport and Telecommunications Daryl Vaz, the ambitious $1 billion JMD project aims to address critical energy infrastructure damage following Hurricane Melissa.
Minister Vaz, speaking at a recent post-Cabinet briefing at Jamaica House, detailed the multifaceted approach to restoring safe and reliable electricity access. The programme encompasses three primary components: comprehensive house wiring, essential minor building repairs, and official Electrical Regulator certification services. These measures are specifically designed to regularize electricity access for vulnerable communities while ensuring full compliance with national safety standards.
According to the Minister’s breakdown, 1,542 households are currently receiving combined support packages that include both structural repairs and electrical system upgrades alongside Government Electrical Regulator (GER) certification. An additional 1,200 households are benefiting from entirely new house-wiring installations aimed at establishing formal grid connections. Beyond these direct interventions, approximately 6,000 households will receive complimentary inspection and certification services to facilitate safe reconnections to the national grid.
The financial allocation reflects the programme’s substantial scope: $462 million JMD dedicated to the 1,542 households receiving comprehensive support, while new wiring installations and GER certification services each command $180 million JMD allocations. Households benefit through government grants ranging from $150,000 to $300,000 JMD depending on the specific requirements of each case.
The energy recovery initiative, developed in collaboration with Jamaica Public Service (JPS), represents a coordinated governmental effort to accelerate post-disaster rehabilitation. Minister Vaz emphasized the programme’s significance as part of a “joined-up approach” utilizing all available resources to ensure efficient recovery. The extensive works are projected for completion between February and April 2026.