Energy and Transport Ministry launches RFP for LNG shore power to New Providence cruise ship terminal

Natario McKenzie from Eyewitness News

NASSAU, BAHAMAS– The Ministry of Energy and Transport has announced the issuance of a Request for Proposal (RFP) for shore power, aimed at supplying energy from Arawak Cay to the New Providence Cruise Ship Terminal via liquefied natural gas (LNG).

According to the ministry, the scope of work includes providing up to 60 MW of power at the terminal. Interested parties are invited to submit bids by August 20, 2024. The full RFP document is available for review at www.bahamas.bonfirehub.com. All questions regarding the RFP must be submitted through the portal.

Recently, the government introduced the Natural Gas Bill 2024, which establishes a comprehensive regulatory framework for the importation, regasification, storage, transport, and retail distribution of natural gas in The Bahamas. Under this legislation, the Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA), the energy and communications regulator, has been designated as the governing body for natural gas activities.

The legislation provides a legal framework to ensure that these activities are conducted safely, efficiently, economically, and environmentally responsibly. Its objectives include promoting affordable and safe access to natural gas while enhancing fuel efficiency to lower costs for consumers.