Minister Samuda at SJPC

Excerpt from Jamaica Observer column published on Monday, May 1, 2023

By Jean Lowrie-Chin

JIS Photo

Minister without portfolio in the Ministry of Economic Growth and Job Creation, Senator Hon. Matthew Samuda (Center) being briefed about operations and features of the South Jamaica Power Company plant by Chairman, Mohammed Majeed (left) during a recent tour of the facility in Old Harbour St. Catherine. Also seen here are Plant Manager, Noel Watson (right) and General Manager, Leisa Batiste whyte (in the background).

Acknowledging his keen concern for the environment, my colleagues at the South Jamaica Power Company (SJPC) were pleased to welcome Minister Matthew Samuda to their energy-saving power plant in Old Harbour last week. The minister’s social media post was heartening.

“Today I met with CEO of Marubeni Caribbean Power Company, Mo Majeed, and his team as well as representatives from the @myjpsonline and toured the South Jamaica Power Company today to seek avenues for partnership in the clean energy sector. Currently, in Jamaica, Marubeni operates a liquefied natural gas (LNG) facility in Old Harbour, St Catherine, which has cut emissions by 30 per cent from this plant. From this meeting and tour I saw possibilities for clean energy solutions that will lower consumer energy bills, create ‘clean’ jobs, and build our economy, which can be achieved by accelerating the use of energy-efficient resources, renewable energy, and electric vehicles. “

Prior to the tour of the facility, Plant Manager Noel Watson and General Manager Leisa Batiste-Whyte gave a brief overview of the operation, highlighting key features of the world-class facility which is owned by Marubeni, East West Power, and the Government of Jamaica. This is yet another sign that Jamaica is on a positive path for a cleaner environment.