JPS Gets USTDA Grant for Smart City Development

October 6, 2020

JPS’ vision for the development of smart cities in Jamaica has received a boost through a technical grant from the United States Trade & Development Agency (USTDA).

The parties recently signed a Technical Assistance agreement, which will see the USTDA providing funding to help determine the technical, financial and economic viability of the proposed smart city project for Jamaica.  The grant will help JPS to build on its smart city pilot project in New Kingston, and develop a roadmap for the broader implementation of smart cities throughout the country.

Speaking at the signing event, JPS CEO, Michel Gantois, said: “We recognise the importance of energy in the transformation of Jamaica’s urban landscape. That’s why, in 2016 JPS led the implementation of a Smart Grid/ Smart City Demonstration Pilot in New Kingston, which included the roll-out of Smart Metering, Smart Street Lighting, and a Self-Healing Grid. It is now time to move beyond the pilot demonstration phase. And partnerships are essential for the success of a project of this nature. The establishment of a Smart City requires public-private partnerships, as well as the active involvement of stakeholders across sectors. We welcome the technical assistance from USTDA, which will definitely help to move Jamaica’s smart city vision forward.”

USTDA’s Chief Operating Officer and Head of Agency, Todd Abrajano, indicated that, “The timing is perfect for this technical assistance, as global circumstances demonstrate the need for continued investment in reliable and resilient infrastructure. We are certain that helping New Kingston become a smart city and deploying smart technologies throughout Jamaica will make a lasting impact on the lives of so many people.”

The USTDA grant funding will be paid directly to US Company, Tuatara, which will execute the project on JPS’ behalf.

This is the second partnership of this nature between JPS and USTDA. In 2016, USTDA provided JPS with Technical Assistance grant funding to determine the technical and economic viability of a Smart LED Streetlight programme and potential related smart grid project throughout Jamaica.

The U.S. Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) is an independent federal agency whose mission is to help link American businesses to export opportunities in emerging markets. This is done through grant/funding activities such as project preparation, technical assistance (research, studies, modeling) and partnership building in sectors such as transportation, energy, and telecommunications.

Contact: Winsome Callum – 876-878-3740

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