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- Fitzroy Vidal Moderates Influential Panel on Policy, Finance, and Regulation at Jamaica’s Green Hydrogen Launch and Workshop
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Fitzroy Vidal, Vice President for Project Management and Climate at Sunterra Energy , served as moderator for Panel 1 of the National Green Hydrogen Project Launch and Workshop Kingston, Jamaica – July 1, 2025 – Mr. Fitzroy Vidal, Vice President for Project Management and Climate at Sunterra Energy , served as moderator for Panel 1 of the National Green Hydrogen Project Launch and Workshop, under the theme "Towards Development of a National Green Hydrogen Strategy for Jamaica" held at the Terra Nova All Suite Hotel Kingston Jamaica. The panel, titled “Enabling Policies, Financial Mechanisms, and Regulatory Pathways for a Thriving Green Hydrogen Economy,” brought together some of the most respected thought leaders from government, regulatory agencies, and development finance institutions. Mr. Vidal, a seasoned energy and climate professional, provided strategic guidance to the panel, which featured: Mr. Omar Alcock , Acting Principal Director, Climate Change Branch, Ministry of Economic Growth and Job Creation (MEGJC) Ms. Cheryl Lewis , Deputy Director-General, Legal and Consumer & Public Affairs, Office of Utilities Regulation (OUR) Mr. Sekou Mark , Head of English-Speaking Caribbean, International Finance Corporation (IFC) Mr. Gerard Alleng , Climate Change Senior Specialist, Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) Under Mr. Vidal’s expert moderation, the panel explored the critical building blocks needed to unlock Jamaica’s green hydrogen potential—including enabling policies, investment realities, regulatory readiness, and systemic integration across sectors. The session offered a balanced exchange of perspectives, combining technical depth with visionary leadership. Key highlights from the session included: Government Strategy : Mr. Omar Alcock detailed Jamaica’s net-zero ambitions and emphasized the government’s role in fostering a supportive environment for innovation and climate resilience. Financing Challenges : Mr. Sekou Mark candidly addressed the difficulty of financing green hydrogen projects, while highlighting the IFC’s current investments and willingness to support market development. Regulatory Pathways : Ms. Cheryl Lewis affirmed Jamaica’s energy-neutral legal framework and explained how the existing system can accommodate green hydrogen without major reform. Systems Thinking : Mr. Gerard Alleng urged stakeholders to view hydrogen as part of an integrated economy, emphasizing certification, infrastructure interdependencies, and derivative markets like green ammonia. Mr. Vidal’s facilitation was pivotal in synthesizing these insights and steering the discussion toward actionable strategies for Jamaica’s emerging hydrogen economy. His probing questions and closing reflections challenged panelists and participants alike to consider the trade-offs, risks, and bold leadership needed to advance this transformative agenda. The event was hosted by the Ministry of Economic Growth and Job Creation in collaboration with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). Jamaica is among seven countries participating in the regional initiative Advancing a Regional Approach Towards the Green Hydrogen Economy in Latin America and the Caribbean , funded by the Green Climate Fund (GCF) and implemented by UNEP. The project aims to create an enabling environment to foster the development of a regional green hydrogen economy and to build the capacity of participating countries to attract investment, develop policies, and implement strategic projects. This workshop represents a national milestone in Jamaica’s green hydrogen journey, creating a platform for multi-stakeholder engagement, knowledge exchange, and strategic planning. Media Contact: Sherry DaRosa Marketing & Communications Email: sherry@sunterra.co
- SunTerra Files for NEPA Approval for 50MW Solar Farm in Trelawny
No Major Issues Raised During Stakeholder Session 50MW Solar Farm in Trelawny SunTerra Energy Ltd. is pleased to announce a major milestone in the development of our 50MW solar farm in Trelawny. We have officially filed our application with the National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA), moving one step closer to bringing clean, renewable energy to Jamaica’s national grid. This follows a successful stakeholder consultation session, where key community members, environmental agencies, and regulatory bodies were engaged in open dialogue about the proposed project. We are encouraged to report that no major issues were raised regarding the selected site, underscoring both the suitability of the location and the strength of the planning and environmental assessments conducted to date. The solar farm, once operational, is expected to significantly contribute to Jamaica’s renewable energy targets, create local employment opportunities, and support long-term energy security and price stability for Jamaica . The project forms part of SunTerra’s broader mission to accelerate the Caribbean’s transition to sustainable energy. We extend our gratitude to the local community and all stakeholders who participated in the session and provided thoughtful feedback. We remain committed to transparency, environmental stewardship, and community partnership as we move forward. Further updates will be shared as we progress through the NEPA review process. For media inquiries or to learn more about the project, please contact us at info@sunterraenergy.com .
- Stakeholder Feedback Round for Midnight Sun PV Solar Park in Jamaica
30 April 2025: SunTerra Energy is pleased to announce the Stakeholder Feedback Round for its 50 MW Midnightsun PV Solar Park in the Duncans Vila, Trelawny, Jamaica. The project is developed under the supervision of Gold Standard, with Gaia Climate as the consulting partner. Stakeholder engagement is a key part of the project’s transparent and sustainable development process. The Local Stakeholder Consultation Meeting (LSCM) was held on 30 April 2025 at the Spicy Hill Community Centre. During the meeting, the project was presented to the stakeholders, and their feedback was solicited through an open evaluation process. Comments and suggestions from participants were collected for further consideration. This is the announcement of the start of the stakeholder feedback round. The feedback round aims to gather insights, concerns, and suggestions from a wide range of stakeholders, including local communities, government institutions, private sector actors, and civil society organizations. Input collected will help shape the environmental and social aspects of the projects and strengthen their long-term impact. Feedback Round Details Feedback Period: 30 April 2025 – 30 June 2025 Local Stakeholder Consultation Meeting: 30 April 2025 How to Participate We invite stakeholders, local communities, and interested parties to share their feedback, suggestions, and any concerns regarding the project. To ensure that we can provide a comprehensive response, please include the following information in your correspondence: Personal Information: First Name Last Name Patronymic Contact Information: Address Phone number Email address Feedback Details: Your questions, suggestions, or concerns regarding the project. Submission Instructions We kindly invite you to share your feedback or any concerns regarding this project. Your insights are highly valued and will be carefully considered as we strive to implement this initiative in a responsible and inclusive manner. For further information or inquiries, please contact: Mr. Fitzroy Vidal Director of Project Management and Climate Telephone: +1 876 276 8763 Email: vidal@Sunterra.co Thank you for your engagement and collaboration in fostering sustainable development. Sincerely, SunTerra Energy
- Major Milestone: SunTerra Secures Investment for Jamaica’s Largest Solar Project
Press Release For Immediate Release SunTerra Energy Jamaica Ltd. Secures Rosh Development Ltd. as Initial Investor for Landmark 50MW Solar Project in Trelawny Kingston, Jamaica – April 7, 2025 – SunTerra Energy Jamaica Ltd. is pleased to announce the signing of a Share Subscription Agreement with Rosh Development Ltd., officially bringing Rosh on board as the project’s initial investor. This critical investment enables SunTerra to move decisively into the next phase of development for its 50MW Midnight Sun Project in Duncans, Trelawny, Jamaica. Front Left: Ravi Rochlani, CEO Rosh Development Ltd. Front Right: Emanuel DaRosa, CEO SunTerra Energy Ltd. Back Row SunTerra Team Members: Left to Right Peter Townsend, Legal Counsel, Sherry DaRosa Marketing & Communications, Troy Brennan COO SunTerra Energy Ltd., Fitzroy Vidal, Director of Project Management & Climate The partnership with Rosh Development Ltd. facilitates the intensive work now underway to transition the project from concept to construction, which is anticipated to begin in July 2025. Rosh’s capital infusion and commitment make it possible to: Secure all necessary regulatory and environmental approvals Finalize the EPC contract Complete detailed engineering and design Execute the Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with Jamaica Public Service (JPS) Complete lender agreements to close project financing This collaboration marks a pivotal moment in the realization of the Midnight Sun Project, which will become Jamaica’s largest solar farm, supplying 130 GWh of clean energy annually, representing 4% of the country’s total energy needs. Emanuel DaRosa, CEO of SunTerra Energy Jamaica Ltd., expressed his gratitude and optimism: “Rosh Development Ltd. has played an instrumental role in helping us move from vision to execution. Ravi Rochlani and his team believed in the promise of this project from the start, and their investment has allowed us to take the critical next steps toward construction. We are excited about what this means for the future of energy in Jamaica and are proud to have a partner like Rosh Development Ltd. alongside us.” Ravi Rochlani, CEO of Rosh Development Ltd., shared his thoughts on the investment: “We are thrilled to be the initial investor in the Midnight Sun Project. From the outset, we saw the immense potential of this initiative—not only in terms of clean energy production and environmental impact but in the long-term transformation of Jamaica’s energy landscape. Our investment in the development phase ensures that SunTerra has the support needed to build something truly impactful for the country and the region.” About SunTerra Energy Jamaica Ltd. SunTerra Energy Jamaica Ltd. is a renewable energy company dedicated to accelerating Jamaica’s transition to sustainable, affordable, and reliable energy solutions. With a portfolio of transformative projects, SunTerra is committed to driving economic and environmental progress across the Caribbean. About Rosh Development Ltd. Rosh Development Ltd. is a private investment company with a strong focus on real estate in Jamaica and now moving into energy. The company is dedicated to partnering on high-impact projects that foster economic growth and environmental stewardship. For more information, media inquiries, or interviews, please contact: Sherry DaRosa Marketing & Communications Manager SunTerra Energy Jamaica Ltd. Email: info@sunterraenergy.com Phone: (876) 575-4031
- Announcement regarding the Local Stakeholder Consultation Meeting (LSCM) for Midnight Sun PV Solar Park in Jamaica
MARCH 30, 2025 SunTerra Energy is pleased to formally announce the Local Stakeholder Consultation Meeting (LSCM) for the Midnight Sun PV Solar Park, a 50 MW solar power project located in the vicinity of Spicy Hill, Duncans, Trelawny, Jamaica. The project is being developed under the Gold Standard certification framework, with Gaia Climate serving as the technical consultant. Stakeholder engagement is a cornerstone of the project’s transparent, inclusive, and sustainable development approach. We are committed to ensuring that all stakeholders are given the opportunity to provide input and raise concerns regarding the project’s implementation. The Local Stakeholder Consultation Meeting will be held on 30 April 2025 at 6:00 PM at the Spicy Hill Community Centre. Project Overview (Non-Technical Summary) SunTerra Energy (Jamaica) is developing the Midnightsun PV Solar Park, a utility-scale solar photovoltaic power plant with an installed capacity of 50 MW. The facility will supply clean electricity to large-scale energy consumers and contribute meaningfully to Jamaica’s renewable energy transition. The project is expected to deliver multiple environmental and socio-economic benefits, including: · Supporting national climate goals through the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, · Enhancing access to clean, sustainable energy, and · Creating employment opportunities for local communities during both construction and operation phases. The project applies the ACM0002 methodology under the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) and the Gold Standard. This methodology provides the framework for quantifying emission reductions and ensures that the project adheres to rigorous international standards for climate benefits and sustainable development contributions. Contributions to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) · SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy Generation of approximately 100,740 MWh of renewable electricity per year. · SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth Creation of approximately 600 jobs during construction and 100 permanent jobs during operation, benefiting the local workforce and economy. · SDG 13: Climate Action Annual reduction of approximately 78,879 tonnes of CO₂ equivalent (tCO₂e), contributing to Jamaica’s climate mitigation efforts. Stakeholder Feedback Round We welcome and encourage feedback from stakeholders as part of our commitment to responsible and participatory project development. · Feedback Period: 30 April 2025 – 30 June 2025 · Means of Providing Feedback: Feedback may be submitted via email, phone, or in person during the stakeholder consultation meeting and after. Contact Information Mr. Fitzroy Vidal Director of Project Management and Climate Telephone: +1 876 276 8763 Email: vidal@Sunterra.co Your feedback is highly valued and will be carefully considered as we work to deliver a project that supports Jamaica’s sustainable development. We look forward to your participation in the consultation meeting; however, you may also reach out to us through the contact information below at any time. Sincerely, SunTerra Energy
- Solar Panels in Deserts irreversibly transforms the ecosystem
For years, solar energy has been celebrated as one of the most promising solutions to fight climate change. But while the focus has often been on its ability to generate clean electricity, new research from China suggests that large-scale solar farms may have an even greater impact—transforming entire ecosystems. March 10, 2025 by Brian Foster https://glassalmanac.com/author/brian-foster/ How Solar Panels Are Changing Deserts A team of researchers from Xi’an University of Technology studied the Gonghe Photovoltaic Park in China’s Qinghai Province , a one-gigawatt solar farm covering vast stretches of desert. Their goal? To determine how the installation affected its surroundings. Using the DPSIR model —a framework used by environmental scientists to analyze ecological changes—the team examined 57 environmental indicators , including soil composition, temperature, humidity, and biodiversity . What they found defies expectations : instead of harming the fragile desert ecosystem, the solar panels were actually revitalizing it . From Barren Land to Thriving Microclimate One of the most striking discoveries was the dramatic improvement in soil quality and ecological health beneath the solar panels. What’s causing this shift? The solar panels create consistent shade , which helps retain moisture, lower soil temperatures, and reduce evaporation . In arid environments where water is scarce , these subtle changes can make a huge difference —allowing vegetation to flourish and supporting the growth of microorganisms essential for soil health . A Symbiotic Relationship Between Solar Energy and Nature Traditionally, deserts have been seen as harsh, lifeless landscapes , but the research challenges this assumption. Under the right conditions, solar farms could act as catalysts for ecological revival . In the case of the Gonghe Photovoltaic Park, the presence of solar panels altered energy distribution across the desert, creating a more hospitable environment for plant life . The result? A transformation of the desert ecosystem that could have long-term benefits for biodiversity . This shift raises an important question: Could large-scale solar farms help restore degraded land while producing renewable energy ? According to the researchers, the answer is promising. They concluded that photovoltaic installations have had a net positive impact on the desert environment —a finding that could influence future solar energy projects worldwide. Long-Term Effects Still Need More Research Despite these encouraging results, scientists caution that long-term monitoring is crucial . While the study provides compelling evidence that solar panels can enhance desert ecosystems , researchers emphasize the need for continued observation to fully understand the lasting effects on biodiversity, water cycles, and climate patterns . Additionally, careful site selection will be key. Not all deserts are the same, and ensuring that solar farms are placed in the right locations will help maximize benefits while avoiding unintended consequences . A New Future for Solar Energy and Desert Ecosystems This research marks a significant turning point in how we think about renewable energy and environmental conservation . Deserts, once seen as unusable wastelands , could serve a dual purpose —acting as massive clean energy hubs while simultaneously fostering ecosystem recovery . As the world pushes toward sustainable energy solutions , this study highlights an exciting possibility: solar power doesn’t just reduce carbon emissions—it may also help heal the planet . If harnessed correctly, the very technology we rely on to combat climate change could also play a role in restoring the Earth’s most fragile environments. https://glassalmanac.com/author/brian-foster/
- SUNTERRA Announces Government Approval of 50 MW Solar Farm.
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 presently 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 Collectively this very experienced and competent leadership group guides a small but highly efficient team with over 60 years of experience in renewable energy and sustainable infrastructure development. About SunTerra Energy Ltd. SunTerra Energy Ltd. is a forward-thinking renewable energy company focused on delivering innovative, cost-effective, and sustainable solar energy solutions to the Caribbean and Latin American regions. With its diverse portfolio of solar energy projects and an unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability, SunTerra is leading the charge toward a greener and more energy-independent future. For more information about the Midnight Sun Project and other initiatives by SunTerra Energy Ltd., please visit www.sunterra.co or www.sunterrasolutions.com alternatively contact: Sherry DaRosa Director, Marketing & Communications SunTerra Energy Ltd. Email : info@sunterra.co Phone: (876) 575-4031