Jamaica has received its first shipment of natural gas aboard the Golar Arctic through a partnership agreement between the Jamaica Public Service (JPS) and New Fortress Energy.
The shipment arrived at the port of Kingston last Friday (Aug5).
The introduction of gas represents a historic milestone for Jamaica, as the nation pursues energy diversification and the expansion of its energy sector.
“JPS is proud to be partnering with New Fortress Energy to lead the introduction of natural gas to Jamaica,” said JPS President and CEO Kelly Tomblin in a press release.
“The country has been trying to achieve fuel diversity for a long time, and 2016 represents the year that it has really happened, with the introduction of gas, grid-scale solar, and the addition of significant wind capacity to the grid. Natural gas will play a key role in transforming the energy sector, while supporting industrial development and economic growth. We are definitely on the threshold of great things for Jamaica and the region,” she said.
New Fortress Energy signed an agreement with JPS a year ago to supply LNG for Jamaica’s 120-megawatt power plant in Bogue, Montego Bay. Earlier this year, the plant was converted to run on gas as well as Automotive Diesel Oil (ADO).
New Fortress Energy is finalising construction of the Montego Bay LNG terminal and is on track for mechanical completion this month. After the terminal is complete, JPS and New Fortress Energy will begin the commissioning process.
“The arrival of gas is a historic development for energy diversity and stability in Jamaica,” said Wes Edens, founder and co-chairman of the Board of Fortress Investment Group. “Thanks to the visionary leadership of the Jamaican Government and JPS, the expansion of the energy sector will allow for more reliable and affordable natural gas to support sustainable economic growth and environmental stewardship. We’re proud to invest in this goal and excited to help bring Jamaica one step closer to becoming a clean energy hub for the Caribbean and Latin America.”
JPS and New Fortress Energy have also signed an agreement to extend the supply of gas to Jamaica to the new 190-megawatt power plant at Old Harbour Bay, St Catherine. New Fortress Energy has agreed to privately finance and develop the infrastructure necessary to deliver Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) to the new Old Harbour plant.
Source: Jamaica Observer