Twenty-five of Grand Bahama's small and medium-sized business owners were each given $5,000 as a reward for developing innovative strategies to reduce their energy consumption and usage.
The recipients were picked from more than 150 who participated in the energy efficiency initiative launched on January 31, 2023 by the Small Business Development Centre (SBDC) in partnership with Grand Bahama Power Company (GBPC) and Bahamas Power and Light (BPL).
"With energy being one of the top three operating expenditures for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSME) around the globe, especially convenience stores, quick service restaurants, boutique hotels, auto dealerships and general retail stores, we decided to look for avenues to assist," said SBDC's Director of Client Advisory Services Leo Rolle.
"We wanted to encourage MSMEs to obtain grant, loan and equity funding to purchase solar panels, LED lighting, smart appliances, building insulation and electric vehicles; and highlight funded MSMEs who comprise and support the local renewable energy industry."
Berkshire Bahamas Farms was one of the grant recipients.
The 14-acre farm, located in Pine Ridge Agricultural Estates, off Grand Bahama Highway, is a livestock and agricultural operation.
Co-Founder and Managing Director Terrance Roberts III said the initiative encouraged them to change.
"We started looking into solar and different ways of producing energy, including using the manure for the animals that can be used for renewable energy, even as it relates to housing the animals," Roberts said.
He said his pigs and chickens are now housed in areas enclosed by electric fencing.
"The fencing is outfitted with the solar energy charger and poly wire, which charges up to five miles of wire," Roberts said.
"So, instead of spending thousands of dollars to build a pen for pigs, you can leave the animals on the land, the way God designed it.
"We look at the animals having access to all the minerals and nutrients that the earth supplies for them naturally. They don't get that when they are caged in.
"So, we allow our animals to free raise in a controlled space and we use electric net fencing that is charged by solar energy. It's amazing because not only does it work for energy efficiency, but it also keeps predators out.
"We are thankful to have been selected for the grant. Our mission is to create, establish and foster a safe, simple and sustainable culture of productivity in harmony with nature."
He noted that with Berkshire being only in its fourth year, finding ways to cut costs is essential.
The initiative also included information sessions facilitated by the partners, including topics such as the impact of rising fuel and electricity costs on businesses and residents; renewable energy solutions; going "off the grid" — capacity limits, application process and net metering for business and residents; how to become an approved and contracted vendor and the funding available for renewable energy adaptations.
The winners were presented with their checks last week in a ceremony at Pelican Bay Resorts' Canal House Delphine Room.
The SBDC was started four and a half years ago and, according to Rolle, has helped 1,977 Bahamians access more than $76 million in funding.
"Of that number, 387 were Grand Bahamians who accessed more than $12 million in funding across multiple industries," he said.
"While that number is refreshing, we realize that we could do more. We can, we should and we will do more."
Rolle said in the coming months, SBDC will launch another 10 projects, including Women's Entrepreneur Initiative, Creative Entrepreneurs, Youth Empowerment, Health & Wellness, Domestic Tourism, Food Security and the Export Initiative.
GBPC Chief Operating Officer Nakita Mullings said the power company saw the initiative as an opportunity to foster its relationship with SDBC and to ensure that businesses on the island had greater access to funding.
She added, "Not just any grant, but funding that encourages energy efficiency and renewable energy."
Mullings commended the business owners for their efforts and noted that all of the applicants will receive a GBPC $500 energy credit on their accounts.
"This will allow each business, successful or not, to invest in energy efficiency within their business," she said.
"Additionally, GBPC has partnered with MS Power (Mississippi Power) to offer an energy audit for each applicant as well."
The energy audit allows each business owner to understand their energy use and consumption daily, and how it impacts their operation.
"I know at times it may feel like the odds are against you and there is so much in managing a successful business, especially a small business," Mullings said.
"So much uncertainty post-pandemic, but I ask you to stay encouraged. We, the power company, want you to stay encouraged. You are on the right path, and we are here to support you."
Click here to read more at The Nassau Guardian
