Caribbean Broilers Group (CB) has commissioned four solar plants across its operations islandwide under a “Power Up” project it started three years ago with Soleco Energy.

Collectively, the four solar plants — located at CB Foods Cold Storage Distribution Centre, Freetown: 1.1 MWp; Peninsula Hatchery and Farms, Linstead: 0.30 MWp; Newport Mills, Kingston: 0.50 MWp and Caribbean Hatchery, Old Harbour: 0.2 MWp — will produce 2.1 megawatt of direct current for the group.

The company expects to reduce its annual energy usage by 20 per cent from the sustainable venture.

“This proactive response to the challenges of rising food production costs and climate change underscores CB Group's pioneering spirit in sustainable development,” Matthew Lyn, CEO of CB Group said at the recent commissioning event.

Lyn expressed optimism that this initiative would inspire similar projects across the Caribbean agricultural and energy sectors, further cementing CB Group's dedication to sustainability and innovation.

“When we make a decision, we always look at what the impact is on the three Ps – the people, the planet and our profit; and if it is good for one and not good for the other, it’s generally not going to happen. All the Ps are present on this project,” he continued.

Also present at the ribbon-cutting ceremony were the Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, Floyd Green and the Minister of Science, Energy, and Technology, Daryl Vaz. Their speeches emphasised the crucial role of sustainable agriculture practices and technology in driving Jamaica's energy self-sufficiency.

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In partnership with Soleco Energy (Jamaica) Limited, the "Power Up" project commenced in 2021 and concluded by the end of 2023.

Established in 2019, Soleco Energy Limited specialises in developing power projects for commercial and industrial clients across the Caribbean. One of its most notable projects is the Paradise Park solar plant in Westmoreland.

"Soleco is honoured to have partnered with CB Group in deploying solar PV across four of their facilities. The aggregate 2.1MWp solar installation represents the largest completed by any industrial group in Jamaica to date and stands as one of the largest in the Caribbean region. This project exemplifies Soleco's pioneering business model aimed at providing solar and energy storage expertise to regional companies while steadfastly pursuing sustainability goals." Angella Rainford, CEO of Soleco said.

With the successful implementation of the 'Power Up' project, CB Group's total network production now stands at 3.8 MW, solidifying its position as the largest corporate producer of renewable energy in Jamaica.

“As a company, we have a duty to do better and to do more. At CBG we choose to make a difference, we have invested in our own water facilities, waste management facilities and we have even seeded sustainable projects of small companies,” Lyn said.

CB says its commitment to sustainability spans over four decades, marked by its high-quality products and services in animal genetics, nutrition, and integrated feed and food production. Through popular consumer brands like CB Chicken, Copperwood Pork, Caribbean Passion, and others, as well as its livestock and animal feeds, the company says it remains at the forefront of sustainable practices.

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Source: CB Group to slash electricity usage by 20% with new solar plants