Jamaica Broilers commissions US$8m LNG plant to boost food independence, sustainability
Published:Wednesday | August 6, 2025 | 12:11 AMRuddy Mathison/Gleaner Writer
In a major step towards sustainable energy and agricultural innovation, Jamaica Broilers on Tuesday officially commissioned a 6.5-megawatt Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) Hyundai-powered cogeneration engine at its Best Dressed Chicken facility in Spring Village, St Catherine.
The state-of-the-art plant, which cost approximately US$8 million, is part of the company’s long-term investment in energy independence and food security.
According to Jamaica Broilers Group President and CEO Christopher Levy, the project is designed to reduce operating costs and make local food more affordable.
“The purpose is what we might call our food independence of Jamaica, and in this world we recognise that there is nothing more important than we being able to feed ourselves,” Levy stated.
He emphasised that the plant – one of the largest of its kind in the Caribbean – will significantly reduce the company’s reliance on the Jamaica Public Service (JPS) and improve energy efficiency.
The facility is expected to cut particulate matter and sulphur dioxide emissions by more than 70 per cent, a key milestone in the company’s sustainability agenda.
The plant also features a heat recovery steam generator, which captures exhaust heat to generate steam used in poultry production, further enhancing operational efficiency.
Levy noted that the investment is in direct support of Jamaica’s national energy policy and contributes to the Government’s aim of moving away from heavy fuel oil by 2030, as well as fulfilling Jamaica’s obligations under the Paris Agreement on climate change.
Daryl Vaz, minister of science, energy, telecommunications and transport, in endorsing the project praised the company for its leadership and commitment to a cleaner energy future.
“What we are celebrating is much more than infrastructure. It is a bold statement of intent, a declaration that Jamaica is serious about building a cleaner and smarter and more sustainable future,” Vaz said.
He added: “By investing in this cogeneration plant powered by LNG, Jamaica Broilers is now optimising its operations by contributing to the nation’s broader energy goals.”
Vaz described the development as an example of what is possible when private sector leaders take decisive action to support national sustainability and energy diversification efforts.
Agriculture Minister Floyd Green, in his endorsement, said the newly commissioned cogeneration plant marks a significant milestone for Jamaica Broilers and the wider agricultural sector, signalling a future where sustainability, food security, and innovation go hand in hand.