Commercial and Utility Scale Solar + Storage
Barbados Solar + Battery Supplier
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Founded in 2008, EcoDirect is a value added distributor that helps Bajan installers, do-it-yourselfers (DIY), businesses and commercial projects in St Phillip, Christ Church, Bridgetown, St James, and throughout Barbados with project design, supply, logistics and technical support.
Below are a few of the islands where we have assisted installers, to-it-yourselfers, property owners and businesses with their projects. To find out more about the services we provide, click on one of the links below.
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Barbadian Renewable Energy Incentives
The Barbadian government offers several incentives to encourage residents and businesses to install
solar panels and battery storage systems. One of the key initiatives is the Renewable Energy Rider (RER) program, which allows individuals and businesses to sell excess electricity generated from their solar systems back to the national grid at a preferential rate. This not only helps to offset the initial installation costs but also provides a steady income stream for participants. Additionally, the government has implemented tax incentives, such as exemptions on import duties and value-added tax (VAT) for renewable energy equipment.
These financial incentives significantly reduce the upfront costs associated with solar and battery installations, making renewable energy more accessible to a broader segment of the population.
Moreover, the government has launched various grant and loan programs to support the adoption of renewable energy technologies. For instance, the Barbados National Oil Company Limited (BNOCL) offers low-interest loans specifically for the installation of solar photovoltaic systems. These loans are designed to make it easier for homeowners and businesses to invest in renewable energy without the burden of high initial costs. Additionally, the government collaborates with international organizations to secure funding and technical assistance for large-scale renewable energy projects. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to transition Barbados to a sustainable energy future, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and enhance energy security for all Bajans.
Solar & Batteries in Barbados
In Barbados, the parishes of St. Lucy and Christ Church are leading the way in solar PV installations. St. Lucy, located in the northern part of the island, is home to the Saint Lucy Solar PV Park which adds 10 MW per day to the national grid. This region’s popularity for solar projects can be attributed to its ample open land, which is ideal for large-scale solar farms. Additionally, the consistent sunlight and minimal shading from buildings or natural obstructions make it a prime location for maximizing solar energy production.
Christ Church, situated in the southern part of Barbados, is another hotspot for solar PV installations. This parish benefits from a high population density and a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial areas, making it an ideal location for distributed solar systems on rooftops. The government’s Renewable Energy Rider program has been particularly effective here, encouraging homeowners and businesses to install solar panels and contribute excess energy to the grid. The region’s proactive stance on sustainability and energy independence has fostered a robust market for solar energy, further supported by favorable weather conditions and strong community engagement in renewable energy projects.
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Ideal Locations for Off Grid Solar & Storage in Barbados
In Barbados, there are several ideal locations for off-grid solar and storage installations due to factors such as remoteness, reliance on inconsistent grid access, and strong solar irradiance:
- Rural Areas in St. Andrew and St. Joseph: These parishes are known for their lush, hilly terrain and are more remote compared to other parts of the island. Off-grid solar systems here would be especially beneficial for residential homes and farms that may face challenges with grid reliability or high electricity costs.
- The East Coast (Bathsheba): Bathsheba and other east coast areas in St. Joseph and St. John are less densely populated and often have higher exposure to the elements, which can sometimes lead to disruptions in electricity supply. These regions are also tourism hubs, so off-grid solar can be useful for eco-friendly guesthouses and tourism operations.
- St. Lucy: This northernmost parish is more rural, with lower population density, making it a prime location for off-grid solar and storage solutions, especially for agricultural enterprises or small communities that want to reduce dependence on the national grid.
- Small Islands off the Coast: The small islands surrounding Barbados, like Pelican Island or other uninhabited areas, are ideal for off-grid solar installations, especially for developments aimed at eco-tourism or research stations, where grid connection might not be feasible.
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