PRELIMINARY ENERGY SECTOR ASSESSMENTS OF JAMAICA, V. 1, EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Specialized studies included solar energy (commercial/industrial and agricultural), biogas applications, energy conversion from waste, a coal prefeasibility study, and an electric utility rate analysis. Individual studies were published in three volumes (with volume three on renewable energy being in four parts, for a total of six volumes). This first introductory volume provides a lengthy executive summary of the entire assessment. (A second introductory volume provides an economic assessment of each specialized study area.) After summarizing the findings of the specialized studies, a lengthy series of recommendations is presented. General recommendations include assessing the potential of other promising energy areas; establishing a GOJ office to develop an overall energy conservation plan; identifying the specialized personnel requirements of the GOJ Ministry of Mining and Natural Resources Energy Division; developing the required infrastructure among the various Jamaican groups involved in energy programs; and developing and implementing training and technical assistance plans for GOJ energy program personnel. Specific recommendations include implementing solar water heating, solar agricultural drying, and biogas applications programs; studying waste collection problems in Kingston; establishing an Alternative Energy Laboratory at the University of the West Indies" Mona Campus; upgrading existing oil-fired electric power plants; investigating a possible coal-fired plant and coal supply and shipping; monitoring coal-oil mixture development and coal gasification technology progress; and having the Jamaican Public Service Company assess various options for electric utility rates. A Combined Energy Program based on these recommendations would be economically beneficial and should be implemented. Appendices include a five-item bibliography (1978-79), profiles of the U.S. energy assessment team members, and a summary of a splinter group discussion.