Once again, we are heartened to see the continued robust discussion on energy issues in the media. However, Mark Wignall
SOLAR power has finally become a viable option, driven by falling prices for photovoltaic panels and the soaring cost of oil, say proponents of the alternative energy.
Rooftop panels, which could last for 25 to 30 years, will now pay for themselves in just six or seven years, claim advocates. Until recently, the pay-back period was up to 20 years.
The cost of solar cells has fallen by as much as 49.5 per cent since the start of 2011, according to the PVX spot market index, which tracks the monthly wholesale costs of the industry.

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The Office of Utilities Regulations (OUR) contends that Jamaica will not only miss out on savings on fuel imports by switching to natural gas, but would have to spend over US$2.4 billion more to build new plants over the next 20 years if it wants to continue as “business-as-usual”.
In its Generation Expansion Plan drafted in August, the OUR examined three main expansion strategies
