Uruguay energy pioneer urges Jamaica to act on renewables at 2026 Facey Lecture

The 2026 Facey Lecture Series, supported by Pan Jamaica Group Chairman Stephen Facey, returned under the theme Breaking the Grid as Jamaica confronts pressing questions about energy security, affordability, reliability, and independence. Organisers moved this year's lecture forward, saying the country stands at a crossroads where choices made in the months ahead could shape its energy future for decades.

Ramón Méndez, former secretary of energy for Uruguay and now leading a non-profit organisation, was the featured speaker. He described how Uruguay, a nation of roughly 3.3 million people without vast natural wealth, rebuilt its power sector into one of the world's most successful renewable systems in a relatively short period. Electricity production costs fell from about 11 US cents per kilowatt hour to six cents, while annual spending to generate power dropped from roughly US$1.1 billion to about US$600 million—a saving of US$500 million each year for a country comparable in size to Jamaica.

Méndez said stability mattered as much as savings because Uruguay no longer depends on volatile energy commodities. "What we proved is that energy transition is possible," he said. "It's not just dreams, it's not just papers, it's reality." He noted the grid now runs with a high share of renewables, including variable wind and solar supplying nearly half the mix, showing climate and economic goals can advance together.

Uruguay drew about US$6 billion in investment—roughly 12% of GDP—and created around 50,000 jobs, about 3% of the national workforce, Méndez said, referencing remarks by Mr. Vassell. He argued that lowering investor risk perception is central to reducing the cost of capital, which in turn holds down energy prices in a reformed system.

Méndez cautioned that thermal plants remain in place as a precaution, likening them to car insurance paid for but rarely used. He said he was not fighting fossil fuels, but that all sources should compete on equal footing, with renewables prevailing. For Jamaica, he pointed to wind, solar, and battery storage, saying costs and technology are ready and the moment is right to reshape energy frameworks and take decisive action.