Trinidad and Tobago is on the verge of a significant renewable energy achievement with the upcoming completion of the Brechin Castle Solar Farm, the largest solar project in the region. Located on 238 hectares of land northeast of Point Lisas, the solar farm is a joint venture between BCSL (Brechin Castle Solar Farm Ltd)—a partnership comprising BP Alternative Energy T&T, Shell, and the National Gas Company of Trinidad and Tobago Limited.
With one-third of the project already completed and the remaining work on track for completion by the end of 2025, the solar farm is expected to contribute approximately 8% of Trinidad and Tobago's total power-generation capacity. The installed capacity of 92MW, projected to be operational by October this year, will provide clean energy equivalent to the needs of 31,500 homes. Notably, the project has achieved an impressive safety record of 350,000 incident-free work hours—a testament to the rigorous standards upheld by the construction team.
Construction Manager, Grupotec (the EPC contractor leading the construction) Anant Ramkellawan highlighted several challenges encountered during the initial phases, including communication barriers, difficult terrain, flooding, and labour-related issues. However, these hurdles have yielded valuable learnings, reinforcing the project's role as a pioneering initiative in the country's energy transition.
Environmental stewardship has been a priority throughout the project's execution. Compliance with the Certificate of Environmental Clearance (CEC) ensured minimal disruption to local ecosystems. Measures such as relocating wildlife (including caimans, bees, and otters), using sustainable construction techniques like piling and reinforcement with aggregate, and planting vetiver grass for land stabilization demonstrate the project's commitment to environmental responsibility.
The project has prioritized local content, employing and training approximately 300 skilled and unskilled workers, many from nearby communities. This focus on local engagement underscores the solar farm's role in fostering economic growth alongside renewable energy development.
Once operational, the Brechin Castle Solar Farm will stand as the largest project in Grupotec's global portfolio, which spans Europe, the Americas, Africa, and the Caribbean. Beyond its energy contributions, the solar farm is projected to reduce CO2 emissions by 123,000 tonnes annually—equivalent to removing 26,000 cars from the road—marking a major step toward Trinidad and Tobago's sustainability goals.
The Brechin Castle Solar Farm represents more than just infrastructure; it is a transformative project that aligns with global energy trends while addressing local needs. As construction progresses, the Energy Chamber will continue to monitor and support this landmark initiative, which promises to reshape the nation's energy landscape for years to come.