Strengthening Belize’s Energy Future: Port of Big Creek’s Role in the Submarine Cable Installation

The Port of Big Creek is proud to have played a crucial role in a landmark energy infrastructure project that will enhance Belize’s power reliability and support the country’s clean energy transition. Working alongside Offshore Marine Subsea International (OMSi) and Belize Electricity Limited (BEL), our team contributed to the successful installation of a new 34.5kV submarine cable connecting the islands of San Pedro and Caye Caulker to the Belizean mainland.

Collaboration and Innovation

To facilitate this critical project, the Port of Big Creek collaborated with OMSi to construct prefabricated structures that enabled the efficient transfer of the submarine cable between our barges. These structures played an essential role in ensuring the safe and secure transport of the cable to its final destination.

Our dedicated staff worked closely with OMSi engineers, providing technical expertise, hands-on labor, and essential logistical support throughout the project. This partnership showcased the skill, efficiency, and capabilities available at the Port of Big Creek.

Seamless Transportation and Execution

The AJ Ellis, one of our trusted tugboats, was deployed to transport our barge, ZMT 1, from the Port of Big Creek to Belize City. From there, the barge continued its journey to the islands, facilitating the installation of the submarine cable. Once the cable was successfully laid, our experienced seafarers retrieved the barge and returned it safely to the Port of Big Creek.

A Milestone for Belize’s Energy Sector

This project is a significant step toward a more resilient and sustainable energy grid for Belize. By enabling a more stable electricity connection, the submarine cable will improve energy security, reduce dependence on fossil fuels, and allow for the expansion of cleaner, more affordable power sources—including hydroelectric energy, which currently accounts for nearly 50% of Belize’s electricity generation.

Scheduled for completion by Spring 2025, this initiative will bring long-term economic and environmental benefits to Belize. The Port of Big Creek is honored to have played a pivotal role in such an impactful project, demonstrating our commitment to innovation, infrastructure development, and national progress.

Acknowledgments

We extend our gratitude to OMSi and BEL for their collaboration and expertise in making this project a success. It was a pleasure working together to strengthen Belize’s energy infrastructure, and we look forward to continuing to support projects that drive the nation forward.

Leave a Reply