In a bid to provide lighting to households without access to electricity islandwide, Science, Energy, Telecommunications, and Transport, Minister Daryl Vaz, on Tuesday, (December 12, 2023), presented solar lamps to Members of Parliament across several constituencies under the ‘Pilot Project’.

This initiative underscores the Government’s commitment to fostering a safe and more sustainable future for every Jamaican household. 

Minister Vaz is enthusiastic about the initiative, stating that it is a step forward in the Government’s efforts to improve the quality of life for persons living without adequate electricity.

He explained, “The Ministry decided to bring in 10,000 of these solar lamps, lights, to be distributed to all 63 MPs, pretty much as a Pilot Project, to see how it works, and if it is that we get good feedback from the MPs from the recipients, then obviously we would ramp up this initiative to bring in more lights.”

The Minister added, “The deep rural MPs will get 200 each, mixed areas will get 160 each and the urban (area) will get 100 each, and of course, we’re targeting those persons who do not have electricity and are using other ways and forms that are not in keeping with good order.”

By providing the MPs with these solar-powered devices, Minister Vaz says it is to inspire positive change and set an example for the broader community, reducing risks to life and property.  

The solar lamps handed over to Members of Parliament are equipped with solar panels which are integrated into the design. The lamps harness sunlight to generate power, eliminating the need for traditional energy sources and reducing the carbon footprint, as well as they can be charged by USB port. 

The Members of Parliament will be responsible for identifying areas in their constituencies and residents who are most needy, then provide feedback to the Ministry of Science, Energy, Telecommunications, and Transport to inform the way forward.