The Caribbean Development Bank (CDB, the Bank) has advanced Grenada’s geothermal energy programme into a decisive new phase, launching an expanded drilling campaign at Mount St Catherine, in the north of the island, to determine the viability of commercial power generation.
“Geothermal energy holds transformative potential for Grenada and the wider Caribbean,” said Dr Isaac Solomon, CDB’s Vice-President of Operations. “The results of this enhanced exploratory programme will provide the evidence needed to guide next steps with confidence.”
The expanded project replaces originally planned slim exploration wells with deeper, wider rotary wells using directional drilling technology. This significant upgrade will produce stronger reservoir data and provide a solid foundation for investment decisions and long-term energy planning.
The new phase is backed by a £10 million contribution from the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) made in 2025. It builds on CDB’s earlier approval of US$9.4 million in 2023 for the Grenada Geothermal Drilling Project, with financial support from partners including the Inter-American Development Bank, the Global Environment Facility, the European Union, and the Government of Italy.
Key preparatory work has been completed, including environmental and social impact assessments, land acquisition, and the establishment of a dedicated Project Management Unit. Engineering designs and procurement are also at an advanced stage, with technical support provided by the Government of New Zealand.
Director of Projects at CDB L O’Reilly Lewis said the technical approach at Mount St Catherine reflects the rigorous standards required to advance geothermal energy from exploration to investment decision. “This foundation is critical as the region accelerates its renewable energy ambitions.”
The project timeline now extends to June 2028 to accommodate the upgraded drilling scope, additional civil works, and strengthened environmental safeguards.
“The results of this drilling phase will determine geothermal energy’s role in Grenada’s long-term energy future,” said Prime Minister of Grenada, Hon. Dickon Mitchell. “We are committed to the pursuit of local pathways to energy security, reduced dependence on imported fuels, and enhanced economic opportunities for our people.”
The project is designed to provide the Government of Grenada with the technical evidence required to determine whether to proceed with the development of a geothermal power plant. Subject to favourable results, the next phase is expected to involve a competitive tender process to attract private sector investment for construction and operation.
CDB’s support to Grenada forms part of a broader regional push to expand renewable energy capacity, with similar geothermal initiatives underway in Dominica and St Kitts and Nevis.
CDB
