The Government of Jamaica has approved SunTerra’s bid to implement its 50MWac/80MWdc Midnight Sun Project, which will be constructed in Trelawny.

This solar farm is one of two winning proposals awarded by the government under its request for proposal to supply up to net 100 MW of electricity generation from renewable energy-based power generation facilities on a build, own and operate basis.

SunTerra’s plan was chosen from among 12 international bids for its innovative design, economic feasibility, and unwavering commitment to delivering sustainable energy solutions. Upon completion, the Midnight Sun Project, which will be constructed on 220 acres of land, will be the largest solar farm in Jamaica and the second largest in the CARICOM region.

This ambitious project will sell 130 GWh of energy representing 4% of Jamaica’s total energy requirements annually to the Jamaica Public Service (JPS) under a 20-year Power Purchase Agreement at 5.99 US cents per kWh. SunTerra will supply energy to JPS, at a highly competitive rate that demonstrates SunTerra’s ability to deliver affordable, renewable energy to the national grid. The project will become a significant contributor to Jamaica’s energy transition and support achievement of its sustainability goals.

Emanuel DaRosa, CEO of SunTerra Energy Ltd said: “We are honoured to be awarded this groundbreaking project, which represents a major milestone not only for SunTerra but for Jamaica and the wider Caribbean. The Midnight Sun Project will help Jamaica make strides toward its renewable energy targets and bolster the country’s energy security, while also supporting the creation of local jobs and economic opportunities. This is just the beginning of the demonstration of our commitment to transforming energy markets across the Caribbean.”

Troy Brennan, chief operating officer of SunTerra Energy Ltd, added: “The Midnight Sun Project exemplifies the power of cutting-edge solar technology, financial efficiency, and a shared vision for a sustainable future. With the latest technology, including HJT 2.0 solar panels and high-performance inverters, we are not only ensuring that this project will provide reliable power to the grid but also positioning Jamaica as a leader in renewable energy within the region.”

Project Overview

The Midnight Sun Project will utilize state-of-the-art technology to ensure safe, reliable, and efficient energy production. Over 114,000 HJT 2.0 solar panels will be supplied by Risen and/or Hausun, and 55MW of SunGrow inverters, will be integral to the project’s success. These technologies are designed to maximize power generation while mitigating any environmental impact.

SunTerra’s long-term vision, for this project will not only generate energy but also reduce greenhouse gas emissions by more than 80,000 tons of CO2 annually. It will generate about 300 construction jobs and some 60 long term positions. Additionally, the project is projected to save the Jamaican economy over $20 million USD annually in energy costs, making it a major financial contributor to the country’s future.

SunTerra is already looking ahead to future phases, with plans to expand its generation capacity while adding battery storage capabilities. This will enable SunTerra to provide 24-hour energy to the grid from solar power alone, creating a truly sustainable and independent energy source. This capability is the origin of the project’s name: Midnight Sun.

Reimagining the Renewable Energy Vision

This project represents Phase 1 of SunTerra’s broader strategy to transform Jamaica’s energy landscape. SunTerra has secured land rights that would enable it to supply up to 15% of Jamaica’s total energy requirements. The company is actively pursuing additional renewable energy projects in Jamaica and throughout the Caribbean region, including Barbados, Bahamas, Guyana, St Lucia, and Antigua, where the solar conditions and economics align to make solar a viable, cost effective, and impactful energy solution.

In addition to clean energy production, SunTerra is developing a carbon credit program that will not only support environmental sustainability but also help fund the establishment of a SunTerra Foundation. This foundation will provide critical support for nutrition, education, healthcare, and gender equality initiatives across Jamaica, furthering SunTerra’s commitment to the country’s most vulnerable communities.

Partners and Team

SunTerra is collaborating with several key partners for this project, including SYGNUS Group, Rosh Developments, Black & Veatch, CJPA Global Advisors, GAIA Climate and Environmental Solutions Ltd.

The company is working with three experienced international energy EPC contractors to finalize the construction details over the next month, while also engaging various financial institutions, including the Development Bank of Jamaica, to secure the necessary senior debt financing.

The leadership team at SunTerra Energy Ltd includes:

• Emanuel DaRosa, CEO
• Troy Brennan, COO
• Fitzroy Vidal, Project Management & Climate
• Peter Townsend, Legal Counsel
• Sherry DaRosa, Marketing and Communications