Greentech Lead America: NRG Energy has completed first
two projects funded by Clinton Global Initiative (CGI) to build solar energy
sites in Haiti.
The first of NRG’s CGI commitment projects was a
completed system at the Lashto Fish Farm. The fish hatchery, operated by
Caribbean Harvest, uses 63 PV panels (14,490 watts total) and a battery system
to provide 24/7 power under normal weather conditions.
This clean, renewable electricity runs the fish tank air
filtration system, enabling increased production of tilapia and additional fish
farming jobs that contribute to economic prosperity and food security for the
region.
President Bill Clinton and David Crane, president and CEO
of NRG Energy,
have toured several sites in Haiti’s Central Plateau to view the progress of
solar power installations funded by NRG’s $1 million commitment made through
the CGI.
These projects are being done in association with Solar
Electric Light Fund (SELF) that implements solar energy solutions in developing
countries, and include an additional $500,000 pledge from the Clinton Bush
Haiti Fund.
“I am proud that my Foundation has partnered with
NRG on this project, which works with Haitian schools, farms and businesses to
make a real difference in the lives of Boucan Carre residents in an
environmentally friendly manner. I was glad to visit NRG’s project sites and
see the progress being made, and I look forward to seeing its success
continue,” said President Clinton.
These projects reflect the William J. Clinton
Foundation’s commitment to building Haiti’s green energy structure. The
Foundation has worked with green technology organizations in Haiti, including
NRG, to address Haiti’s energy costs.
Clinton Foundation partners are working on low-cost clean
energy alternatives, creating recycling systems to help manage Haiti’s waste,
and developing new methods for cooking through effective cook stoves and
recycled briquettes to replace charcoal.
“Solar power makes absolutely perfect sense in a
country that suffers from low electrification rates, high dependency on fossil
fuels and high supply prices. As the largest solar developer in the U.S., NRG
is proud to bring our industry leadership and expertise to Haiti,” said
Crane.