HDF Energy, leading global developer of large-scale green hydrogen infrastructure and manufacturer of high-power fuel cells, has launched project development in Saint Lucia through its Caribbean office, based in Barbados. With a strong commitment to meeting Saint Lucia’s energy needs, HDF Caribbean is spearheading the HYVOLUCIA project — a cutting-edge, non-intermittent renewable electricity power plant designed to provide reliable, sustainable energy for the country.
Develop land I Empower people I Harness light
The project
Context
With climate change, rising fuel prices and the increasing sensitivity of tourists to its carbon footprint, Saint Lucia recognizes the urgency of adopting sustainable energy practices. Saint Lucia's transition to renewable energy is driven by its National Energy Transition Strategy, which outlines the roadmap for achieving the renewable energy targets set by the government. The HYVOLUCIA project aligns with Saint Lucia's vision by offering a renewable energy solution that enhances grid stability, promotes energy independence, and contributes to economic growth through job creation and local skills development.
Technology
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The solar park and/or wind turbines produce non-polluting electricity when the sun is shining and/or when the wind is blowing. One part of this energy is injected directly into the power grid, while another part is stored in batteries and in the form of hydrogen.
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Battery storage enables energy to be restored to maintain the power plant's production over a short period of time, for example when a cloud passes overhead.
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Hydrogen is produced from water via an electrolyser (water electrolysis).
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The produced hydrogen is stored as a gas in large tanks.
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Electricity is generated from the stored hydrogen using high-power fuel cells, developed and manufactured by HDF Energy. It is injected in the power grid when the sun isn’t shining or the wind isn’t blowing over the long term (long cloud cover, night, long periods without wind).
This integration is made possible through HDF's advanced energy management system, which orchestrates when to charge or discharge the batteries and when to generate or consume hydrogen. The result is an uninterrupted supply of cost competitive green electricity available 24/7, guaranteeing optimal capacity, perfectly tailored to meet grid requirements and saving thousands of tons of CO2 annually.
Benefits for Saint Lucia
Energy
Independence
The project will reduce Saint Lucia's dependence on fossil fuel imports, promoting energy security and sovereignty.
The integration of renewable energy and advanced storage technologies will improve grid stability and resilience by reducing reliance on imported fuels.
Grid
Stability
By maximizing carbon-free generation, the project will help Saint Lucia achieve its renewable energy targets and optimize its energy mix.
Increased Renewable Energy Penetration
Local Economic Growth
The HYVOLUCIA project will provide a stable and competitive electricity price promoting the socio-economic development of Saint Lucia.
Foreign Direct
Investment
The HYVOLUCIA project will bring in USD 115 million contributing towards national development and local economy.
Service
The HYVOLUCIA hydrogen power plant will deliver:
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13 MW from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
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3 MW from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m.
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58,089 MWh of firm electricity per year, or
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15.5% of LUCELEC's average annual production
The system will comprise:
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A 52 MWp, hurricane-resistant ground-mounted solar PV power plant
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A 15 MW water electrolysis system
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78 MWh of gaseous hydrogen storage
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A 3 MW fuel cell system, manufactured by HDF Energy
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A 13 MW, 26 MWh short-term lithium-ion Battery Energy Storage System (BESS)
