Dominica is turning its volcanic terrain into a source of clean, reliable energy. The Caribbean island is building a 10-megawatt geothermal power plant in the Roseau Valley, aiming to eliminate diesel-generated electricity by 2030. The project marks a major leap toward energy independence, and a model for regional renewable development.
From Hot Springs to Power Source
Using natural geothermal reservoirs beneath the southern village of Laudat, the plant will convert underground heat into electricity. Pressurized steam will power turbines, then be cooled and re-injected into the earth, completing a sustainable cycle.
Energy Minister Dr Vince Henderson says the long-term goal is to reduce electricity bills and replace all diesel power generation. The new facility, which is on track to launch by the end of the year, will initially supply half of Dominica’s peak demand. Eventually, it could produce surplus electricity for export via undersea cables to neighboring islands.
Backed by Global Support and Private Expertise
The project is a joint venture between the Dominican government and U.S.-Israeli energy firm Ormat Technologies. It’s funded through a mix of government investment, international grants, and loans from agencies including the World Bank, the Caribbean Development Bank, and the governments of the U.S., U.K., Japan, and New Zealand.
“We are doing the entire project,” said Ormat CEO Doron Blachar, referring to the company’s role in designing, manufacturing, and installing the plant. Ormat has decades of experience in geothermal energy and also operates Guadeloupe’s long-running geothermal facility, which it’s currently expanding from 15 to 25 megawatts.
Regional Model for Renewable Expansion
Dominica’s geothermal plant is the second in the Caribbean, and serves as a pilot for similar efforts in Grenada, St Lucia, St Kitts and Nevis, and St Vincent and the Grenadines. The Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) has set a target of reaching 30% renewable energy by 2034 with Dominica and others aiming for 100%.
“As a region heavily dependent on imported fossil fuels, the transition to green energy is not optional it is existential,” said OECS Director General Dr Didacus Jules.
Fred John, managing director of the Dominica Geothermal Development Company, adds that the new plant will act as a test case. “The rest of the OECS will benefit from the lessons learned here both what worked and what didn’t.”
Local Impact and Environmental Debate
The project has raised environmental and financial concerns. Critics like conservationist Atherton Martin worry about damage to the unique ecosystem of the Roseau Valley, where exploration has already impacted wildlife. Others question the high costs, with the government investing at least $15 million so far.
However, Dr Henderson defends the project as a strategic investment in resilience and energy sovereignty. The island’s power grid was devastated by Hurricane Maria in 2017, making energy reliability a top priority.
Ormat says its global record shows geothermal operations are safe, with no history of inducing earthquakes. When operational, the Dominica facility will employ around 30 locals and contribute to a steady supply of 24/7 zero-emission power, regardless of sunlight or wind.
A Blueprint for a Greener Caribbean
With the plant set to be handed over to national utility Domlec after 20 years of operation, Dominica is banking on geothermal energy to lead a broader shift across the region. The hope is that others will follow suit not just for cost savings, but as a climate resilience strategy.
“This development breathes new life into the vision of a regional energy grid,” said Dr Jules, “one that connects our islands through clean, reliable, and affordable energy.”
