A BRIGHTER FUTURE FOR BERMUDA - LEARNING FROM BARABDOS AND HAWAII'S RENEWABLE ENERGY SUCCESS

By Robbie Godfrey - October 2024

As Bermuda stands at a critical juncture in shaping our energy future, we must ask ourselves: what kind of legacy do we want to leave for generations to come? We have the opportunity to make transformative decisions that will redefine the way we power our homes, our businesses, and our entire island. The Regulatory Authority of Bermuda is currently undergoing a consultation process about the updated Integrated Resource Plan (IRP), which will shape the island's energy strategy for decades. Now is the time for Bermudians to envision a future where our island leads the way in renewable energy and sustainable development.

As we explore options, it is worth looking to other island nations that have successfully embraced renewable energy and the benefits that come with it. Two places in particular—Barbados and Hawaii—offer powerful examples of how a transition to clean energy can lead to greater energy independence, sustainability, and economic opportunity.

Barbados: Pioneering Solar Energy and Sustainability

Barbados, like Bermuda, is a small island dependent on imported fossil fuels for much of its energy. In recent years, however, the country has embarked on an ambitious journey to reshape its energy landscape. With a target of 100% renewable energy by 2030, Barbados has taken bold steps to become a regional leader in solar energy, with residential rooftop solar and large-scale solar farms becoming increasingly common across the island.

The key to Barbados's success lies in a combination of strong government support and practical policies that encourage private investment. Through tax incentives, import duty exemptions for renewable energy equipment, and attractive feed-in tariffs, the government has made it easier for businesses and homeowners to invest in solar energy. Barbados’ commitment to renewable energy isn't just about technology—it’s about creating a sustainable and resilient energy system that benefits everyone, especially the most vulnerable members of society.

Barbados’ experience highlights a crucial lesson for Bermuda: we can incentivize renewable energy adoption by creating policies that make it financially viable for individuals and businesses alike. Imagine a Bermuda where rooftop solar systems generate clean energy for homes and businesses, where our schools and public buildings harness the power of the sun, reducing electricity bills and emissions at the same time. This vision is entirely achievable.

Hawaii: Leading the Way with Integrated Renewable Energy Solutions

Hawaii, one of the most geographically isolated places in the world, offers another compelling example. Faced with some of the highest electricity rates in the United States due to its reliance on imported oil, Hawaii has taken bold steps to transition to renewable energy. Today, the state has set an ambitious goal of achieving 100% renewable energy by 2045. By 2023, 40% of Hawaii’s power was being generated by renewable sources, with half of that power coming from rooftop solar.

One of Hawaii’s most innovative approaches has been its focus on community solar programs and distributed energy resources. Recognizing that not every resident can install rooftop solar, the state created a program allowing people to participate in shared solar projects, making clean energy accessible to everyone, including renters and those without suitable rooftops. Bermuda, with its tight-knit communities, could adopt a similar model, ensuring that everyone has a stake in our renewable energy future.

Additionally, Hawaii has focused on improving grid stability through the deployment of battery storage and demand response programs, which help balance energy supply and demand. This integrated approach has allowed Hawaii to maintain reliability while significantly increasing renewable energy penetration. For Bermuda, where grid stability is a concern with intermittent renewable sources, Hawaii’s experience demonstrates that with the right planning and technology, a reliable and sustainable energy system is within reach.

What Does This Mean for Bermuda?

The examples of Barbados and Hawaii make one thing clear: renewable energy is not only feasible for island nations but essential for building a sustainable future. Both islands have faced challenges similar to Bermuda’s—reliance on imported fuels, vulnerability to global price fluctuations, and the need to maintain a reliable power grid. Yet, they have embraced renewable energy with a level of ambition and foresight that has brought them closer to energy independence.

Here in Bermuda, we are blessed with abundant sunshine and ample opportunities to harness clean energy. But to do so, we must make deliberate choices. The consultation on the Integrated Resource Plan offers us a chance to voice our support for a future where renewable energy plays a central role in powering our lives. It’s an opportunity to advocate for policies that incentivize rooftop solar, promote community solar programs, and invest in technologies like battery storage to ensure grid reliability.

We must also ensure that this energy transition is equitable - Bermuda’s energy future must benefit all of our citizens, especially those who are most vulnerable to rising energy costs. By advocating for the inclusion of a "Social Equity Impact" metric in the IRP, we can ensure that the transition to renewable energy does not disproportionately burden low-income households. We can, and should, aim for a future where clean energy is accessible and affordable for all.

A Call to Action

As the CEO of BE Solar, I believe that Bermuda can lead the way in renewable energy. We have the talent, the technology, and the will to make this transition a reality. But it will take all of us - the Regulatory Authority, Government, businesses, and private individuals, working together to make it happen. Now is the time to act.

I encourage all Bermudians to participate in the ongoing IRP consultation, which closes on 31 October 2024. Let your voice be heard, and let’s push for a bold, sustainable, and equitable energy future. Just as Barbados and Hawaii have shown, small islands can achieve great things when we dare to dream big.

SUBMIT TO THE IRP CONSULTATION

Together, we can create a cleaner, brighter future for Bermuda—one that ensures our children inherit an island powered by the sun, the wind, and the strength of our collective ambition.

About Robbie Godfrey:

Robbie Godfrey has been the CEO of BE Solar since 2023 and has a background in Operations, Engineering and HSE Risk Management.