In response to concerns regarding the stability of the local energy grid and the increasing energy consumption throughout the country, the Jamaica Public Service Company (JPS) has moved to reassure the public that it is well-equipped to meet the surging demand.

In July Jamaica reached a record-breaking peak energy demand of 692MW. However, Winsome Callum, director of corporate communication at JPS disclosed to Our Today that the company has the capacity to handle approximately 1000MW.

“About one-third of this belongs to JPS and the rest to Independent Power Producers (IPPs) who generate electricity and sell to JPS for distribution to customers. The generation reserves allow JPS and other producers to routinely take units off-line for scheduled maintenance throughout the year,” she explained.

Callum said that the amount of energy consumed in August was similar to that used in July. She noted that while an evening peak record was set in July, a new daytime peak record also occurred in August.

Callum added that despite the growing energy demands, more customers are engaging with the company’s social media and messaging platforms for tips on reducing their electricity bills.

JPS continues to encourage customers to implement energy-saving measures, which include using the MyJPS Mobile App for monitoring energy usage, cycling air conditioning usage, and utilising ice and cold storage to reduce refrigerator use.