St. Kitts and Nevis Opens Bidding for Geothermal Energy Production

The Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) has announced a significant advancement in the region’s pursuit of sustainable energy: the opening of bids for the production drilling phase of the St. Kitts and Nevis geothermal power project. This project, located in Nevis, represents a cornerstone of the Federation’s Sustainable Island State Agenda (SISA) and symbolizes a major stride towards energy independence, resilience, and a cleaner environment for the OECS Member State. Five internationally recognized firms have submitted proposals for the drilling initiative, which is expected to commence in early 2026 following the selection of the successful bidder. The project has secured US $37 million (approximately EC $100 million) in funding from the Caribbean Development Bank, the Inter-American Development Bank, and the Saudi Fund for Development.

The 30-megawatt geothermal plant, once operational, will provide a consistent and reliable source of renewable energy, known as baseload power, for both Nevis and St. Kitts. This clean energy source promises to lower electricity costs, reduce dependence on fossil fuels, and contribute significantly to the Federation’s ambition of achieving true energy independence. The Prime Minister of St. Kitts and Nevis, Honourable Dr. Terrance Drew, highlighted the transformative potential of this project, emphasizing its contribution to a cleaner, more affordable energy future for generations to come. This project positions St. Kitts and Nevis as a leader in renewable energy within the Caribbean region, following Dominica’s planned inauguration of a 10-megawatt geothermal plant and Guadeloupe’s existing geothermal electricity production.

The St. Kitts and Nevis geothermal project serves as a flagship initiative within the OECS GEOBUILD Programme. This program aims to unlock the geothermal potential across five participating Member States, driving a transition away from fossil fuels and promoting sustainable economic development. The project has garnered international attention, with its recent showcase at the Global Sustainable Island Summit (GSIS 2025) held in both Charlestown and Basseterre. The forum provided a platform for technical discussions among renewable energy experts and facilitated a site visit to the Hamilton geothermal field, the base for the St. Kitts and Nevis Island Climate Enhancement Project (SKNICE).

SKNICE, a key component of the federal Sustainable Island State Agenda (SISA), embodies the federation’s holistic approach to sustainable development. SISA encompasses seven interconnected pillars: energy transition, water security, food security, sustainable industries, sustainable settlements, circular economy, and health and social protection. These pillars represent the foundation for a “future-ready nation,” according to Prime Minister Drew, and address critical areas essential for the long-term wellbeing and prosperity of the Federation. The geothermal project directly contributes to the energy transition pillar, demonstrating the interconnectedness and synergy of the SISA framework.

The geothermal development in Nevis centers on the Hamilton Estate, where deep earth thermal reservoirs have already been identified. The project scope involves the drilling of production and reinjection wells, crucial components for harnessing the geothermal energy to power an electric turbine. The successful completion of this drilling phase will pave the way for the construction and operation of the geothermal power plant. This project aligns with the 2025-2035 OECS Decade of Action for Sustainable Energy Development, highlighting the region’s commitment to transitioning towards a cleaner and more resilient energy future.

The OECS Commission commends the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis and the Nevis Island Administration for their forward-thinking leadership and commitment to this transformative project. The project signifies a significant step not just for St. Kitts and Nevis, but for the entire OECS region, demonstrating the potential of geothermal energy to drive sustainable development and enhance energy security. The Nevis geothermal project serves as an inspiring model for other island nations seeking to diversify their energy sources, mitigate the impacts of climate change, and build a more sustainable future for their citizens. The OECS Commission continues to support all Member States in their pursuit of renewable energy solutions, recognizing the crucial role of clean energy in achieving both economic prosperity and environmental sustainability.