Source:  The New York Times

Date Published: 11.09.2025

Link: After Jamaica’s Disastrous Storm, Solar Power Is a Bright Spot

Hurricane Melissa demonstrated the resiliency of rooftop solar while exposing the vulnerability of Jamaica’s centralized power grid: residents with solar panels, such as retired auditor Jennifer Hue, were able to maintain power, store food, and assist neighbors despite thousands of people losing energy. From 1.4 MW in 2015 to almost 65 MW in 2023, Jamaica’s rooftop solar sector has expanded quickly, promoting clean energy not only as a means of reducing dependency on costly imported fossil fuels but also as crucial storm resilience in a hurricane-prone area. The majority of correctly installed panels survived 180 mph winds, which strengthened the case for stricter installation guidelines, tax breaks, and new financing choices that are increasing solar accessibility. Storm recovery has once again demonstrated how solar energy combined with batteries can keep homes and businesses online in the event that ports, transmission lines, or power plants fail, advancing Jamaica’s target of 50% renewable generating by 2030.