The U.S. Department of Energy has officially given the green light to the ambitious submarine power cable project aimed at connecting the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico. The approval has been communicated to the Caribbean Transmission Development Company (CTDC), which will oversee the initiative.
Slated for completion in 2031, this significant energy project is designed to facilitate the bidirectional flow of up to 700 megawatts of electricity, enhancing both nations’ energy security and overall stability within the Caribbean region. As reported by El Nuevo Día, procurement of necessary equipment will begin once the federal review process concludes.
In the Dominican Republic, the submarine cable will be linked to a newly constructed natural gas power plant, specifically developed for this project by CTDC. Conversely, the interconnection in Puerto Rico will integrate with the island’s electrical grid through the Mayagüez substation.
For the project to proceed, CTDC still needs to secure power purchase agreements with Puerto Rico’s Electric Power Authority, along with fuel supply contracts for the Dominican power plant. Additionally, the company will seek remaining permits from energy and environmental authorities in both jurisdictions, including securing approval from Puerto Rico’s Energy Bureau. The projected timeline aims for the cable to be operational by January 2031.
This initiative is not only expected to meet part of Puerto Rico’s electricity requirements but also lays the groundwork for future energy exports from the island, particularly surplus solar energy, to the Dominican Republic. This development underscores the potential for enhanced energy integration, resilience, and the promotion of renewable energy sources within the Caribbean, paving the way for a more sustainable energy future.