Solar Accelerator Explained

A group of 26 Caribbean nations, over 40 private sector firms, 8-time Olympic gold winner Usain Bolt, and musician, Sean Paul launch a $1 billion in Caribbean Climate-Smart Accelerator create the region to be the world’s first climate-smart zone.

The Accelerator aims to create the world’s first climate-smart zone that involves implementation of energy solutions for resilience, renewable energy, development of of sustainable cities, oceans, and transportation. The climate-smart zone also stimulates jobs and a vibrant economy.

Work Together

“Being climate-smart means putting the people of the Caribbean at the centre of all we do – to protect them from the challenges of climate change,” explained Prime Minister of Jamaica, Andrew Holness. “The Caribbean Accelerator will also stimulate job development, social inclusion, and economic growth.

These advantages will only come when Governments, the international community, and the private sector work together to overcome obstacles and create the investment that will benefit us all. That is why I am excited by the capability of the Accelerator to join the Caribbean with global partners who share our vision to see investment grow in the years ahead.”

One of the projects launched was the InterAmerican Development Bank’s (IDB) that announced its pledge by adding $3 million in start-up funding to the Accelerator. The World Bank Group gave a three-year commitment of $1 million annualy, on top of its existing support that totals almost $2 billion aimed at increasing resilience and financial protection against disasters.

“We are committed to a stronger, more resilient, and climate-smart Caribbean,” added Jorge Familiar, World Bank Vice President for Latin America and the Caribbean. “Working together, bringing in international partners and increasing private sector participation will be key to maximize financing for development and create opportunities for all.”

Organizations Support the Cause

Usain Bolt and musician Sean Paul are Ambassadors of the Accelerator. Countries which have already signed up to the Accelerator include: Grenada, St. Lucia, Dominica, Jamaica, Montserrat, Turks and Caicos, St. Kitts & Nevis, Antigua & Barbuda, US Virgin Islands, Anguilla, British Virgin Islands, Belize, Barbados, Bahamas, Guyana, Suriname, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Aruba, Curacao, Bonaire, St Vincent & The Grenadines, Panama, Haiti, Mexico, and Honduras.

The Accelerator has the backing of over 40 public and private sector organizations, such as Bill Gates of Microsoft, the Clinton Foundation, Airbnb, Tesla, Richard Branson’s The Virgin Group, and PwC. “Our goal is ambitious and bold: we are creating the world’s first climate-smart zone,” said Sir Richard Branson. “We have a vision of a Caribbean which is greener, stronger and more resilient than ever before – built on innovation, powered by clean, sustainable energy and accelerated by public and private investment.”

If you want to find out what panels are right for you, go to HahaSmart.com and try our price checker tool. You can see how much you can save over the next 20 years by going solar, and we can help find local solar installers who can help. For more information relating to going solar, don't forget to visit our solar blog section for more handy guides and articles.

HahaSmart Blog - More Solar Tips and Guide
HahaSmart News - Stay Informed
Your Solar Incentives - See Credits and Incentives in Your Area
Check Your Home's Solar Price - See How Much You Save
Register Now - Unlock The Lowest Solar Prices in Your Area