Belize Electricity Limited (BEL), in partnership with the Government of Belize (GoB) through the Ministry of Public Utilities, Energy and Logistics (MPUEL), and with advisory support from the International Finance Corporation (IFC) of the World Bank Group, is pleased to announce the launch of a Request for Prequalification (RFPQ) for the development of utility-scale solar photovoltaic (PV) projects totaling up to 80 megawatts (MW) across Belize.
This landmark initiative reflects a significant, multi-party collaboration between BEL, the Government of Belize, and IFC, combining local leadership and expertise with global best practices to foster the country’s clean energy transformation.
The project is being developed under the World Bank Group’s Scaling Solar program, which promotes transparent and efficient procurement of privately financed utility-scale renewable energy projects. The IFC will provide technical guidance and support as Lead Transaction Advisor, helping to achieve a competitive and investor-ready procurement process. Their involvement has been made possible with the support of the Japanese Government through the Comprehensive Trust Fund (CJTF) and the Global Infrastructure Facility.
Project Overview
- Total Capacity to be installed: Up to 80 MW of grid-connected utility-scale solar PV
- Number of Project Sites: Three to four locations across Belize
- Commercial Structure: Independent Power Producer (IPP) model
- Role of the Private Sector: To design, finance, construct, own, operate, and maintain the solar PV facilities for a 25-year period
A Collaborative Vision for Belize’s Energy Future
This planned strategic investment follows directly from the Least Cost System Expansion Plan (LCEP) for the electricity sector which recommended the rollout of a mix of indigenous utility-scale solar and battery energy storage solutions supplemented by thermal capacity additions to meet demand for electricity in Belize up to 2042. It represents a cornerstone of Belize’s energy transition and demonstrates the shared commitment of BEL and the Government of Belize to:
- Achieve 75% renewable electricity generation by the year 2030
- Reduce reliance on electricity imports and foreign exchange outflows
- Strengthen national energy security, system reliability, and grid resilience
Procurement Process
The RFPQ marks the first stage of an open competitive procurement process to identify private-sector developers with the technical, financial, and operational capacity to deliver large-scale solar PV projects within an accelerated timeframe. It is important to note that only prequalified applicants will be invited to participate in the subsequent Request for Proposals (RFP) stage.
Access to RFQ Documents
The full RFPQ package, including eligibility criteria, submission requirements, and key timelines, is available on the BEL website at https://www.bel.com.bz/UtilityScalePhotovoltaicIPPProject….
BEL, in partnership with MPUEL, invites qualified developers to join this transformative initiative, one that will advance Belize’s sustainable energy future and strengthen the country’s position as a leader in renewable energy development.
The post Belize Electricity Limited in partnership with Government of Belize and IFC launches 80 MW utility-scale solar project development appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
Belize Electricity Limited (BEL), in partnership with the Government of Belize (GoB) through the Ministry of Public Utilities, Energy and Logistics (MPUEL), and with advisory support from the International Finance Corporation (IFC) of the World Bank Group, is pleased to announce the launch of a Request for Prequalification (RFPQ) for the development of utility-scale solar
The post Belize Electricity Limited in partnership with Government of Belize and IFC launches 80 MW utility-scale solar project development appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
