Bahamas Academy is celebrating a major milestone following the successful installation of a solar energy system which will reduce electricity costs and reshape the institution’s future. The project was first envisioned by former Principal Anthony Burrows, as part of a long-term strategic plan to reduce energy costs and modernize the campus. South Bahamas Conference Education Director and former principal of Bahamas Academy, Juliette Sands, shared that the technical framework finally came together through consultations with experts Ramon Greene and Deon Stewart.

Sands said, "On February 19th, 2025, a formal committee was established to align all stakeholders and finalize an execution strategy. Despite a restricted timeline for grant applications, Principal Dr. Smith and Mr. Symonette remained resolute in their commitment. They engaged a professional grant writer and with the assistance of Mr. Greene, successfully compiled a comprehensive proposal."

Their efforts secured critical funding through a partnership between the South Bahamas Conference and the Small Grant Program of the United Nations Development Programme. Sands emphasized that transparency remained a priority throughout the process.

Sands said, "To maintain the highest standards of transparency and accountability. All procurement secured from the vendors in China and the United States was documented via meticulous invoice submission and fund tracking through the small Grant office."

This structured approach ensured that every phase of the project met strict financial and operational standards. The completed solar installation represents what Sands describes as a defining moment for the institution.

Sands said, "The successful installation of these solar panels represents a landmark achievement for our institution, resulting in an estimated annual utility savings of $36,000 per year. We are profoundly grateful for the providential guidance and collective efforts that brought this vision to fruition."

For the technical team, the project represents years of dedicated commitment and faith. Lead electrician Ramon Greene described the initiative as both practical and mission driven.

Greene said, "I'm very happy to be a part of this momentous occasion, mainly because it's very special for me being a part of the conversation for a very long time. And I know what renewable energy means to Bahamas Academy and what it will mean. So solar energy is going to offset, is going to produce, it's going to save. It's going to allow us to use resources for ministry where it's needed."

Dr. Smith emphasized the educational value of the project for the students during the installation process.

Smith said, "Our students were able to benefit from hands on experience as they witnessed the entire process of solar panel installation. And in this time of climate change, it is important that we preserve our natural resources for our generations to come."

Representing the Small Grant Program, Dr. Lesvie Archer highlighted the broader implications of the project.

Archer said, "School using solar energy is impactful in at least three ways in terms of the students, they receive access to latest technologies and that educational training that they can go and share with their parents and friends, and really shaping the environment." 

"Secondly, when schools use solar energy, they set an example for the community around them, and they pioneer, and take that leadership role in showing how a people in a collective organization should get together to responsibly steward their environment."

"Schools using renewable energy also effects the United Nations Development Program. It encourages us, and we are able to work in partnership to help reduce carbon emissions on a global scale and therefore safeguard our world for a better future for all."

To commemorate the installation of the solar panels, a service of thanksgiving was held on the school grounds on March 27th. In attendance were South Bahamas Conference and Atlantic Caribbean Union (ATCU) administrators, Dr. Archer of the Small Grants Program, and special consultants for the project. Pastors, former school workers and representatives of the Retirees association also came in support of this occasion. ATCU President, Dr. Kent Price, encouraged the school to continue to be innovators in their community and beacons of light spiritually.

Price said, "So I come by to remind you today, students, just as these solar panels capture the energy of the sun. So the Son of God energizes our lives, keeps our faith vibrant, our mission alive, and our hearts burning with holy fire. As the physical energy holds steady, even when troubles shake BPL, may the spiritual energy of Christ never flicker. Never fade but shine stronger, shine steadier, shine even more powerfully in each and every heart."

The service continued with special music and tokens of appreciation to those who assisted in the solar energy project. The speaker was South Bahamas Conference President, Pastor Kenny Deveaux, who shared that the renewable energy initiative reflects the Christian commitment to stewardship. Pastor Deveaux reminded those present that taking care of the environment is a duty mandated from the beginning of time. As the school celebrated the launch of its sustainable energy program, Pastor Deveaux also announced the completion of the school’s mortgage.

Deveaux said, "We also burnt the mortgage for this institution, and what that means is that all of those funds can now be redirected into other important areas. And so we are grateful and are thankful to God for what he continues to do for this great institution."

The institution’s leadership believes the combined benefits of renewable energy and financial freedom will create new opportunities for academic advancement, community engagement, and long-term sustainability. We praise God for his continued blessings as well as the Administration of Bahamas Academy, the Education Director and Administrators of the South Bahamas Conference, Mr. Deon Stewart and Dr. Archer of The Small Grant Program, Mr. Ramon Greene, Mr. Clarke, Mr. Leo Rolle, and Mr. Harold Dorsett.


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