Exploring Low-Carbon Power Supply Options for Small Island States

1 November 2024 — Gréoux Research supported the National Science and Technology Conference in Jamaica, “Addressing Energy, Water, and Resilience Challenges in Small Island Developing States (SIDS) with an Optimal Mix of Renewable and Small Nuclear Power Sources”.

SIDS face unique challenges in securing electricity and water supply due to limited land, geographic remoteness, vulnerability to natural disasters and exposure to climate change.

Following an invitation from the International Atomic Energy Agency, Gréoux Research supported the 2024 conference organised by Jamaica’s Scientific Research Council. The event examined how SIDS can strengthen their energy, water and resilience systems through a balanced mix of renewable technologies and small nuclear power sources.

We contributed with a presentation and an interactive Q&A session on energy planning, Small Modular Reactor technology and the economics of integrating low-carbon options into island power systems. Our contribution highlighted the constraints SIDS encounter – reliance on imported fossil fuels, limited land availability, water scarcity and growing climate risks – and discussed how a combined portfolio of renewables, storage and small nuclear units can improve system resilience and reduce long-term costs.

Beyond the presentation, we provided practical insights on modelling tools, planning frameworks, the financial drivers of small modular reactors and the conditions under which these technologies can complement renewables in island settings. These exchanges helped participants link long-term energy objectives with the analytical tasks required to evaluate future investment choices.