Column: Embracing Bermuda’s Energy Future

[Column written by Stratton Hatfield]

As Bermuda stands at the crossroads of a sustainable energy future, every voice counts in shaping the Integrated Resource Plan [IRP]. This next IRP will define the path we take toward a more efficient Bermuda, influencing the kinds of energy we rely on, the costs of electricity, and the impact we have on our environment for decades to come. It’s a rare opportunity to take action for a future we all believe in, and Bermuda’s residents have the power to help steer this journey toward sustainability and energy justice.

Imagine a Bermuda powered by clean, renewable energy – one that no longer needs to rely on expensive, polluting fossil fuels. Imagine our homes, businesses, schools, and essential services all drawing power from sources that preserve our beautiful island and planet rather than harm it. Think of the difference this will make for our children, our economy, and our environment. This is within our reach, but it requires commitment, vision, and the courage to choose a path that’s both progressive and sensible.

The IRP is not just a plan; it’s a chance for the people of Bermuda to encourage what Bermuda’s energy future should look like. While the current draft is a good start, there is room to strengthen Bermuda’s clean energy strategy, avoiding costly or outdated technologies.

Here are a few recommendations that could enhance Bermuda’s journey towards sustainability and that you can endorse in your IRP consultation submission which is due by October 31, 2024:

1. Prioritize Renewable, Low-Emission Energy Sources: The IRP includes Liquefied Natural Gas [LNG] as a potential energy source, but LNG may not align with Bermuda’s long-term decarbonization goals. According to the International Energy Agency [IEA], “renewable energy sources like offshore wind are expected to be among the cheapest and most environmentally beneficial options for islands and coastal communities” [IEA, 2023]. Offshore wind and expanded solar arrays which are proven technology, could better serve Bermuda by capitalizing on our island’s unique natural resources.

2. Embrace Solar Car Parks, Solar Water Catchments and Industrial Rooftop Solar: Research by the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory suggests that solar panels on car parks and industrial rooftops are cost-effective and reduce environmental impact by repurposing existing structures [LBNL, 2022]. These decentralized options in addition to using large water catchments such as ones in St. Davids could allow Bermuda to increase renewable capacity without sacrificing Bermuda’s natural landscapes and have proven effective in reducing reliance on large-scale projects with extensive new infrastructure.

3. Encourage Energy Efficiency Measures in New Builds: Many countries have successfully implemented mandated requirements for energy-efficient appliances and construction standards, reducing overall demand and electricity costs. In a recent analysis, the World Resources Institute highlighted that energy-efficient standards in building codes significantly reduce energy demand, offering lasting savings to residents and the broader grid [WRI, 2022]. Implementing similar measures could ensure new buildings in Bermuda are future-proofed and compatible with solar PV systems, battery storage and electric vehicles over time.

4. Incorporate Electric Vehicle [EV] Smart Charging: As EV adoption grows, Bermuda’s grid will need to adapt. According to a recent study by the Rocky Mountain Institute, “bidirectional EV charging allows electric vehicles to act as grid assets, stabilizing demand while improving resilience and reducing costs for both consumers and utilities” [RMI, 2023]. Enabling this capability in Bermuda would help better manage an increased energy load and renewable energy intermittency while supporting our transition to renewable energy.

5. Consider Community-Friendly Energy Policies: Bermuda’s IRP could support policies that make solar power accessible for all. Amending restrictions on property connectivity, for example, would allow neighbors and communities to share solar power – an approach proven effective in countries like Germany, where community solar has been instrumental in increasing renewable adoption [Fraunhofer Institute, 2023]. Updating the “anti-wheeling” policy, which currently prevents solar customers from selling excess power, would encourage broader solar energy use, making it more affordable for families and businesses. Finally, deploying a stable long term feed in tariff would build confidence for investors and ensure that people have a reliable and steady rate to consider ROI and IRR for clean energy.

6. Invest in Waste-to-Energy Solutions: The IRP could incorporate biogas production through anaerobic digestion, using Bermuda’s food and horticultural waste to produce renewable energy. This innovative approach would help manage horticultural waste while contributing to our energy mix. For instance, a report by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation highlights how waste-to-energy models can reduce landfill use while generating valuable, renewable energy [EMF, 2023].

7. Increase Transparency in Renewable Energy Development: Bermuda’s residents deserve to know how renewable energy projects are progressing. The proposed IRP has a goal to achieve 85% of renewable energy by 2040. The public is not aware of how much renewable energy we have now nor do people know what targets we are looking to hit each year to get 85%. Greater transparency in reporting will keep the public informed about the progress of renewable energy deployment and how closely we’re aligning with the IRP’s goals. The Caribbean Development Bank notes that “transparency and regular reporting on renewable energy progress boost public trust and encourage investment” [CDB, 2022], which will be vital for Bermuda’s energy transition.

This is a crucial opportunity for our community to guide Bermuda toward a sustainable, resilient future. Imagine our island as a global example of small communities uniting together to fight the climate crisis and reduce the cost of living and doing business. Imagine being part of a generation that chose to secure Bermuda’s environment for our children, our economy, and our way of life.

I encourage you to submit your response to the Regulatory Authority’s IRP consultation by Thursday October 31, 2024, and make your voice heard. If you are inspired by any of these recommendations, please consider including them in your submission.

Here is a link to the consultation. click here

- Stratton Hatfield is the Chief Sales & Marketing Officer at BE Solar and Co-Chair of the Energy Division at the Bermuda Chamber of Commerce. He holds a MSc in Sustainability, Entrepreneurship & Design and a certificate from Harvard Business School Online in Sustainable Business Strategy.

#OpinionColumns #SolarEnergy

Category: All, Environment, News