Jamaica’s energy ministry released the country’s first electric vehicle policy as part of the island’s push to increase energy security, diversify supply and decarbonise.
The roadmap’s main goals are the development of an enabling regulatory environment, deployment of efficient charging infrastructure, establishment of guidelines related to standards and batteries, training and public engagement. The policy highlights penetration targets established in the Strategic Framework for Electric Mobility, with 12% of electric vehicles being privately owned by 2030 and 16% being public transport.
According to the ministry, Jamaica spends more than US$1.6bn a year to import petroleum-based fuel. The limitations and barriers highlighted in the policy – available here – are pricing, under-par road development and no dedicated funding.
In January, Jamaica Urban Transit launched the Caribbean nation’s first battery electric bus (pictured) for public transportation. That same month, power utility Jamaica Public Service began phase one of a program to replace its fleet with electric vehicles.
