CEPM and Royalton Bávaro inaugurate solar photovoltaic plant to reduce carbon emissions

The Consorcio Energético Punta Cana Maca (CEPM) and Royalton Bavaro have begun operating a self-consumption photovoltaic solar plant at the hotel complex as part of the consortium’s ambitious “CEPM Zero” decarbonization project.

The project marks an important step forward for the sustainable development of tourism in the eastern zone of the Dominican Republic, by adopting a more environmentally friendly energy matrix.

The solar photovoltaic plant will be a masterpiece of sustainable technology, consisting of 1,980 modules of 455W capacity, with a peak direct current output of 900,900 Wp and an estimated first year production of 1,447,231 kWh. This effort will result in the reduction of 1,026 tons of CO2 and a savings of 2,386 barrels of oil, supporting CEPM’s vision of becoming one of the world’s first zero-emission, 100% renewable electric utilities.

“This project in collaboration with Royalton Bavaro is a benchmark in the vision of ‘CEPM Zero’ in our quest to achieve carbon neutrality through renewable energy and advanced storage technology,” noted Oscar San Martin, general manager of CEPM.

“An effort that enables the responsible adoption of sustainable and innovative energy solutions, and lays the foundation for a true transformation and acceleration towards a net-zero emissions economy,” he added.

To further support the sustainability and safety of this project, a precision electronic measuring instrument will be implemented that will provide data on global radiation, temperature and wind speed at the location. This will not only maximize the performance of the plant, but also strengthen the infrastructure against potential structural damage from high winds.

In addition, a comprehensive control and monitoring system will be implemented that will allow real-time supervision and remote control of the facility from any device, ensuring safe and efficient operation at all times.

CEPM Zero’s firm intention to decarbonize the company and become a global benchmark for sustainability in the area is fully in line with the sustainability plans of Blue Diamond Resorts, the hotel management company behind Royalton Bavaro.

Meanwhile, César Vargas, Regional Director of Operations Dominican Republic for Blue Diamond Resorts, indicated that “our commitment has always been to provide exceptional experiences to our guests, while at the same time being conscious and actively contributing to the care of the environment, the local community and the growth of the destination”.

“We are confident that this development will mark a significant milestone in the sustainability of the hotel sector in the region, supporting our goal of a greener and more responsible future,” he added.

The solar photovoltaic plant at Royalton Bavaro is one of several projects marking the path towards CEPM’s complete conversion to 100% renewable energy generation by 2030, according to a statement.

The ambitious plan calls for the expansion of its capacity to more than 800 MW, incorporating solar, wind, pumped hydro and green hydrogen sources to its current matrix, with an estimated investment of US$1 billion.