Barbados launches first BESS tender for 60 MW/240 MWh

By Global Infrastructure Sherpa · Feb 6, 2026

Development StorageBattery Storage announced Barbados Feb 6, 2026

60 MW

Capacity

development

Stage

Barbados has launched its first competitive tender for Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), seeking to award 60 MW and 240 MWh in capacity. The initiative is backed by multilateral organizations and has garnered significant interest from the private sector. The tender's technical design was led by RELP, which has experience in similar projects in Jamaica and Argentina. The process marks a shift from feed-in tariffs to competitive bidding in Barbados' energy sector, supported by new legislation and regulations.

Deal Analysis

Barbados' launch of its first competitive tender for 60 MW/240 MWh of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) represents a significant step towards modernizing its energy infrastructure and increasing renewable energy integration. The tender, backed by multilateral organizations, signifies a shift from feed-in tariffs to a competitive bidding process, supported by new legislation and regulations. This move aims to attract private sector investment and enhance the reliability and resilience of the island's electricity grid. The technical design was led by RELP, which has experience in similar projects in Jamaica and Argentina, suggesting a well-structured and potentially replicable framework. The involvement of Barbados Light & Power as the offtaker, alongside lenders such as BID, GEAPP, and Banco Central de Barbados, underscores the strong institutional support for the project. The participation of OOCUR and CCREEE further highlights the regional importance of this initiative. The tender's success could serve as a model for other Caribbean nations seeking to transition to cleaner energy sources and improve grid stability through energy storage solutions. This project is a key indicator of Barbados' commitment to its renewable energy goals and its ability to attract international investment in the sector.

First BESS tender in Barbados, signaling a shift in energy policy.
Sizeable capacity of 60 MW/240 MWh, indicating a significant investment in energy storage.
Involvement of multilateral organizations and experienced advisors like RELP, enhancing project credibility.
Strong institutional support from Barbados Light & Power and multiple lenders.

Market Context: The energy storage market is rapidly growing globally, driven by the increasing adoption of renewable energy sources and the need for grid stabilization. Small island developing states (SIDS) like Barbados are particularly vulnerable to climate change and energy security challenges, making investments in renewable energy and energy storage crucial for their sustainable development. This tender reflects a broader trend in the Caribbean region towards diversifying energy sources and enhancing grid resilience.