Dominican Republic advances in energy storage at Reform Forum

Santo Domingo.- During the “Energy Sector Reform” Forum organized by the Dominican Association of the Electric Industry (ADIE) and the Technological Institute of Santo Domingo (INTEC), Edward Veras, executive director of the National Energy Commission (CNE), emphasized the Dominican Republic’s progress in energy storage. He highlighted its crucial role in creating a more resilient and sustainable electrical system. Veras noted that the country is making significant strides in both renewable energy adoption and energy storage integration, which is vital for ensuring the stability and reliability of the energy grid.

Veras pointed out that energy storage, once financially unviable, is now becoming a reality due to technological advancements and supportive policies, including resolutions promoting storage in solar projects. A notable achievement is the upcoming launch of the first four-hour energy storage system linked to a solar project, set to be operational by mid-2025. This system will participate in the spot market without a power purchase agreement (PPA), showcasing the growing confidence in the Dominican energy sector.

Additionally, Veras explained that the recent updates in regulations by the CNE, including Resolution CNE-AD-0005-2024, create more favorable conditions for concessions related to electricity generation projects that incorporate battery energy storage systems (BESS). He also reaffirmed the National Energy Plan (PEN), which aims for 25% of the country’s energy generation to come from clean sources by 2025 and 30% by 2030.