The Promising Outlook for Solar Energy Development in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Country or Region Overview

Country or Region: Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Capital: Kingstown

Total Population: Approximately 110,000 (as of 2025)

Geographical Location: Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is located in the southeastern Caribbean Sea, between Saint Lucia to the north and Grenada to the south. It consists of the main island of Saint Vincent and a chain of smaller islands and islets, including Bequia, Mustique, Canouan, and Union Island. The nation is part of the Windward Islands in the Lesser Antilles and enjoys a tropical maritime climate with favorable solar conditions year-round.

Solar resource map copyright at 2021 Solargis. Licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution license (CC BY-SA 4.0). This is a solar resource map from Solargis. For a higher resolution map, please visit and download.

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Solar Irradiation Data in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

The country benefits from abundant solar resources, with consistently high solar irradiation throughout the year. Its location near the equator ensures minimal seasonal variation and high photovoltaic output potential.

Key Solar Irradiation Data:

  • Annual Solar Irradiation: Typically between 5.2 to 5.8 kWh/m²/day

  • Sunshine Hours: Around 2,800 to 3,000 hours per year

  • Solar Performance: Strong output with high reliability across all islands

These conditions make Saint Vincent and the Grenadines an excellent location for rooftop solar, microgrids, and solar-powered public infrastructure, especially in remote or off-grid communities.

If you need to learn more solar power potential in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, please feel free to contact Solarvance for more details.

Temperature Factors in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

The islands experience an average annual temperature ranging between 25°C and 31°C, with only minor fluctuations throughout the year. This temperature range is well-suited for solar systems, though it’s important to use panels with low temperature coefficients and to maintain proper ventilation beneath the modules for maximum efficiency.

The combination of high sun exposure and moderate temperatures results in favorable energy yields for well-designed solar PV installations.

Energy Demand and Grid Situation in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Electricity in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is primarily supplied by the St. Vincent Electricity Services Limited (VINLEC). The national grid covers the main island and some of the Grenadine islands, but remote and smaller islands still experience limited access or instability.

The energy system is heavily reliant on diesel-based generation, which leads to high electricity costs and environmental concerns. The government is actively promoting renewable energy as part of its national development strategy, including the integration of solar energy into both grid-tied and standalone systems.

Preferred System Type in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Due to varying energy needs and grid coverage across the islands, several solar system types are suitable:

  • Grid-Tied Systems: Ideal for homes and businesses in urban areas with consistent grid access

  • Hybrid Systems: Recommended for users needing backup power during outages or living in areas with unstable supply

  • Off-Grid Systems: Perfect for outer islands or rural communities, where connecting to the main grid is not practical or economical

Solar systems in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines often benefit from battery storage to enhance reliability and independence.

Dust and Sand Factor in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Dust accumulation is generally low to moderate, especially on the main island where rainfall is regular and vegetation is dense. However, in drier areas or during the dry season (January to May), some dust buildup may occur, particularly on flat-roof installations.

Routine cleaning and proper panel tilt help reduce performance losses from dust and airborne particles.

Humidity and Rainfall (Humidity Factor) in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines has a humid tropical climate, with relative humidity averaging 75% to 90% throughout the year. The rainy season extends from May to November, and short, heavy showers are common.

Solar systems must use moisture-resistant components, including IP65+ enclosures, UV-resistant wiring, and corrosion-resistant frames. Good drainage and elevated installation practices are necessary to prevent water damage and ensure longevity.

Ocean (Salt Corrosion Factor) in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

The islands’ coastal nature means that most installations are located close to the ocean, resulting in high salt exposure. Salt mist carried by trade winds can lead to corrosion if systems are not properly protected.

Solar arrays should be designed with marine-grade materials, including anodized aluminum frames, stainless steel fasteners, and anti-corrosion coatings. Regular inspections and maintenance are crucial for systems installed near the shoreline.

Government Policies and Solar Incentives in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

The government of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is committed to expanding renewable energy, including solar, as part of its National Energy Policy and Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to climate goals.

Key developments include:

  • Import duty exemptions for renewable energy equipment

  • Government and donor-funded pilot projects on public buildings

  • Partnerships with the Caribbean Development Bank and EU programs for clean energy

  • Long-term goals to reduce fossil fuel dependency and expand energy access in remote areas

While a formal feed-in tariff or national net metering scheme is not yet fully established, policy direction strongly supports solar energy adoption.

ROI on Solar Systems in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Due to high electricity costs and favorable solar conditions, ROI for solar systems in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is typically attractive:

  • ROI Period: Around 4 to 6 years, depending on system size and usage

  • Post-ROI Savings: Significant reductions in monthly electricity expenses

  • Long-Term Value: Enhances property value, resilience during outages, and sustainability credentials—especially for tourism-related businesses

Combining solar with storage accelerates ROI in areas with unreliable grid service or where diesel fuel costs are high.

Conclusion on Solar Power in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines has all the fundamentals for successful solar energy expansion: abundant sunlight, high electricity costs, rural energy needs, and a governmental push for renewable adoption. From homes and schools to hotels and off-grid islands, solar is a practical and powerful solution.

At Solarvance, we provide weather-hardened, salt-resistant solar systems customized for Caribbean island conditions. Whether it’s a remote microgrid or a rooftop array for a guesthouse, we’re ready to support your solar journey across Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

Choose Solarvance for Your Solar System

Contact us today to explore customized solar solutions for your needs, whether you’re interested in grid-connected, off-grid, or hybrid solar systems. Our team at Solarvance is here to guide you through every step of the process, from system design to installation and maintenance.

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