The electricity system in the Cayman Islands is modern, reliable, and privately operated, serving both residential and commercial users. It is fossil-fuel dominated, but with ongoing transitions toward renewable energy and energy efficiency.
Key Electricity Provider
Caribbean Utilities Company (CUC)
Main power supplier in Grand Cayman
A publicly traded company, listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange
Granted a Generation Licence (until 2039) and Transmission & Distribution Licence (until 2028) by the Cayman Islands Government
Electricity Infrastructure
Component
Details
Generation
Primarily diesel-powered generators
Transmission & Distribution
Network of substations and underground cables on Grand Cayman
Grid Capacity
Over 160 MW installed capacity on Grand Cayman
Voltage Levels
Standard household voltage: 120/240 V, 60 Hz (similar to USA/Canada)
Reliability
Very high, with modern grid tech and backup systems
Power Outages
Rare; mostly storm-related or planned maintenance
Electricity Costs
Among the highest in the Caribbean due to:
Heavy dependence on imported diesel
Fluctuating global oil prices
Bills include:
Base rate
Fuel cost adjustment (volatile)
Government regulatory fees
Renewable Energy & Sustainability
Cayman is working to reduce its fossil fuel dependence.
Initiative
Details
CORE Program (Consumer Owned Renewable Energy)
Allows residents to install solar panels and sell excess power to the grid
CUC’s Battery Storage
Large-scale battery energy storage system installed in 2023
Utility-scale solar farms
One active, others planned (aim: 70% renewable by 2037)
Energy Policy Goals
70% renewable electricity by 2037 under National Energy Policy
Sister Islands Electricity
Little Cayman & Cayman Brac
Served by the Cayman Brac Power and Light Company (CBPL)
Smaller, independent grids with similar diesel-based generation
Exploring solar hybrid systems and microgrid technologies
Challenges
High fuel import costs
Hurricane resilience and storm recovery
Achieving long-term renewable goals without spiking costs
