Solar power has become such a hot topic of late, it’s not unusual for North American homeowners to explore installations after becoming fed up with skyrocketing home heating and cooling bills. Solar farms, scattered across the landscape, are increasingly prevalent, too. These ground-mounted panels are installed across open areas, capturing sunlight, and converting it to renewable electricity for power grids.
Given such widespread acceptance, it’s no wonder Caribbean islands are adopting this form of energy delivery, too. A recent announcement by Belize’s adults-only Coco Plum Island—that the property is in the process of switching to solar power—says plenty about management’s desire to implement a more sensible, affordable, eco-friendly system, and this improvement should resonate with every tourist. Once you learn more about this type of system, you’ll be as enthusiastic as repeat visitors will be to welcome this major change to the island!
How does an island solar power conversion work?
It’s simpler than you may imagine. Islands employ self-contained microgrids in the form of solar panels, impressively large battery storage systems, and innovative management controls to produce and maintain a stable, independent energy supply. Must you be an electrical engineer to understand how this will work for Coco Plum? Not really. This step-by-step guide may be helpful:
- Photovoltaic panels will be installed on the island to convert sunlight into electricity by day.
- If the limited amount of land won’t sustain as many panels as needed, engineers may recommend installing floating solar panels to work in concert with the land-based panels.
- Excess energy generated when the sun shines will be stored in industrial battery banks.
- Batteries with stored electricity will keep Coco Plum powered at night or if cloud cover is heavy.
- This system of “smart microgrids” will automatically meet real time demand.
- The system will incorporate weather forecasting, predict solar output, and optimize backup battery use.
An island haven that pairs energy savings with excellence
No degrees in solar engineering required to understand how important and valuable this conversion will be to the resort’s energy management and commitment to sustainability. The install will follow on the heels of an extensive renovation, recently completed to upgrade Coco Plum’s look and function. In concert with this conversion to solar power, Coco Plum will morph into one of the most modern and responsible resorts in Belize.
Will the installation of this system make a difference in guest experiences? You bet. Coco Plum has already gained a sterling reputation for respecting the environment, delivering comprehensive tour and activity offerings, in addition to offering every guest savings.
Awards and accolades attest to this refuge’s outstanding personal services, generous all-inclusive package, and add-ons, yet beautifully decorated accommodations and structural reinforcements to safeguard the island have not been ignored. Keep tabs on Coco Plum’s progress as you consider your own vacation wishes and book your time on an island that literally makes the most of every sunny day!
