What is Utility Scale Solar?

Utility-scale solar, also called solar farms, are large solar power plants which provide the power they generate directly into the electric grid, which is then sold to customers.

Our analysis has determined that approximately 700 acres of land are needed for utility-scale solar for Grand Cayman within the energy mix we have proposed in our Integrated Resource Plan. This is 1.5% of the island’s land area.

Once completed, utility-scale solar production will result in the equivalent to a 94% CO2 reduction compared to current sources of generation.

Utility-scale solar planning is influenced by several factors including the grid characteristics and geographic location.  Utility-scale solar requires extensive planning, but presents incredible opportunities to make the biggest progress to transition electricity generation to renewable energy sources.

As with rooftop solar, there are benefits and challenges to be considered when it comes to utility scale solar. 

Benefits

  • Lower cost energy: Due to economies of scale, optimized design and other factors, the cost per kilowatt hour of utility-scale solar is significantly lower than rooftop solar.

  • Stable supply: Dedicated care and maintenance of the system lead to reduced downtime resulting from failed equipment or suboptimal efficiency

Challenges

  • Land use: Land is required to facilitate utility-scale solar development. However, there are growing opportunities to integrate multiple uses with land used for solar farms

Benefits:

  • Lower cost energy: Due to economies of scale, optimized design and other factors, the cost per kWh of utility-scale solar is significantly lower than rooftop solar.

  • Stable supply: Dedicated care and maintenance lead to reduced downtime resulting from failed equipment or suboptimal efficiency

Challenges:

  • Land use: Land is required to facilitate utility-scale solar development; however, there are growing opportunities to integrate multiple uses with land used for solar farms

So which option is best for Grand Cayman?  Utility-scale solar? Or rooftop solar?  The answer:  Both! 

The combined methodologies will best provide what the country needs. Thoughtful deployment of a mix of these types of solar installations will help move Grand Cayman toward a greener grid while providing customers with affordable electricity.