ST GEORGE’S, Grenada – The Caribbean Development Bank (CDB / the Bank) is accelerating Grenada’s energy security ambitions with a major financing package to support the installation of a utility‑scale Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) at the Maurice Bishop International Airport (MBIA). This landmark initiative marks a decisive step in strengthening grid stability and advancing the nation’s transition towards cleaner, renewable energy.
Through its Special Funds Resources, the bank is channelling contributions from development partners, including a combined USD 3 million grant from the United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) and the European Union (EU), as well as a USD 5.7 million loan from the Government of Canada under the Supporting Resilient Green Energy (SURGE) in the Caribbean Programme. Working in close collaboration with the CDB, the World Bank is providing parallel financing for a compatible BESS installation and associated grid upgrades, ensuring seamless integration and reinforcing Grenada’s long‑term grid‑modernisation strategy.
Highlighting the strength of the partnership driving the project, L. O’Reilly Lewis, CDB’s director of projects, stated:
“The Caribbean Development Bank is proud to support an initiative that reflects what is possible when development partners and national institutions work together with a shared vision for a cleaner, more sustainable future. We look forward to seeing the long‑term impact this investment will have on Grenada’s energy security and climate‑smart development.”
Noting the project’s role within the EU’s broader energy partnership with Grenada, Kyle Farnum, programme manager – energy, delegation of the European Union to Barbados, the Eastern Caribbean States and the OECS, said:
“Reliable energy is the backbone of resilient economies. With this Battery Energy Storage System project, the European Union is supporting Grenada not only in expanding renewable energy, but in ensuring that clean power is available when it is needed most. This is part of a comprehensive partnership between the EU and Grenada on energy transition encompassing different technologies, in line with the EU’s Global Gateway initiative.”
Emphasising the importance of storage capacity to grid stability and long-term energy security, Tom Coward, UK development director to the Caribbean and executive director to the Caribbean Development Bank, said:
“The UK is pleased to work alongside the government of Grenada, the Caribbean Development Bank and other partners to support battery energy storage in Grenada. This investment delivers on our ambition to support resilient, low-carbon energy systems across the Caribbean. Energy storage is critical to maintaining grid stability, unlocking the full potential of renewable energy, and strengthening long-term energy security. For small island states, increased storage capacity is a vital step in reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels while supporting climate resilience, sustainable economic growth, and economic security.”
Underscoring Canada’s continued investment in climate-smart development across the region, Her Excellency Brenda Wills, High Commissioner of Canada to Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, said:
“Canada is proud to support Grenada’s efforts to strengthen energy resilience and advance climate-smart development. Through the Supporting Resilient Green Energy (SuRGE) programme, Canada is partnering with the Caribbean Development Bank, and other regional and international institutions, to advance climate mitigation and strengthen energy resilience across the Caribbean. Our USD 5.7 million investment in this battery energy storage project reflects Canada’s commitment to practical, climate-smart solutions that improve grid stability, reduce climate risks, and support sustainable growth.”
Reaffirming Grenada’s commitment to ensuring the successful implementation of the project, Peron Johnson, permanent secretary in the ministry of climate resilience, the environment and renewable energy, stated:
“The government of Grenada expresses its sincere appreciation to the Caribbean Development Bank and our valued development partners, the Governments of Canada and the United Kingdom, the European Union, and the World Bank for their continued confidence and investment in Grenada’s sustainable energy future. The Battery Energy Storage System represents a transformative investment that will significantly strengthen the reliability and resilience of our electricity grid, facilitate the increased integration of renewable energy, and support our national objective of reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels. This project demonstrates the power of strategic partnerships in advancing Grenada’s climate resilience, energy security, and sustainable economic development, and brings us another step closer to achieving a cleaner, more affordable, and more resilient energy future for all Grenadians.”
Implementation of the BESS will be undertaken by Grenada Electricity Services Limited (GRENLEC) under a subcontracting arrangement designed to strengthen national operational capacity and enhance the country’s electricity infrastructure.
The project forms a core component of a broader energy sector investment effort supporting resilience, reliability, and renewable energy integration. The initiative also aligns with CDB’s Strategic Plan 2026 – 2035, which outlines a strong commitment to building resilient energy systems across the Caribbean through innovative investments.