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Is this finally it? Are we on the way to fulfilling a dream once thought to be beyond our reach?
On January 16, 2026, we learnt that a major step forward had been taken in the long-anticipated geothermal energy project in Nevis with the awarding of the drilling contract to Iceland Drilling Company.
Exactly one year ago to the day (January 16, 2025) we posted an article on our website with the headline “NIA Takes Strategic Steps To Advance Nevis’ Geothermal Energy Project”. It has so far been a difficult task to get the show on the road as they say, but the recent announcement suggests that things are definitively taking shape.
The selection followed an international bidding process. Iceland Drilling Company was chosen over four other competitors – Marriott Drilling and Consortium Drilling of the United Kingdom, and Ormat Technologies Inc. and IPS-USA from the United States.
An official from the Premier’s Ministry during his appearance on the government’s information programme, explained that the company’s proven experience in the Caribbean region was a key factor in its selection. He added that the winning bidder not only had the best bid, but has done drilling for Dominica, so they have the Caribbean experience and “they know what to look for”. We certainly hope so.
Apart from describing the development as unprecedented in the history of geothermal exploration in Nevis, the official also outlined that once the contract is signed, the timeline and preparatory work are expected to commence. The drilling company reportedly requires approximately six months to mobilise, as specialised equipment, including the drilling rig, must be transported to the island.
All this is good news, and of course we are cognizant of the many hurdles that are encountered in such a significant undertaking. That is why we believe it is important for there to be careful consideration whenever updates are being provided.
We recall that in the January 2025 article mentioned earlier, it was reported that the Nevis Island Administration (NIA) was moving forward despite past challenges, and was aiming to finalize the bidding process for the drilling early in 2025.
“The next steps will include site visits by prospective bidders, scheduling pre-bid meetings with shortlisted firms in January to address any further queries or concerns, return of bid documents in February 2025, evaluation of those bids, and approval of a selected firm, immediately followed by the execution of the contract with the successful bidders, and finally, the long-awaited commencement of the drilling process.”
“The final timelines in relation to the above list of activities will no doubt depend on the number and quality of bids received. The design of the geothermal power plant will also depend on the outcome of the drilling programme.
“We will be requesting expressions of interest from suitable firms during the first quarter of the new fiscal year (2025) to begin to sensitize them about this project.”
Well, we are into the next fiscal year, and the drilling programme has not yet begun. It soon will, it seems. This geothermal and renewable energy journey has been going on for quite some time. Expectations have been high. There has been an acceptance of the venture’s potential – one gigawatt (1000 megawatts) of geothermal power where the need only stands at 30 to 50 megawatts – to be truly transforming for St. Kitts and Nevis and for the region. There will be more than enough to share. Therein lies the root of all anticipation.
The Nevis geothermal project is expected to play a critical role in reducing energy costs, increasing energy security, and advancing the island’s transition to renewable energy once fully realised. With the drilling contract having been awarded, again we ask: Is this finally it?
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