The Global Carbon Council (GCC) is pleased to announce the registration of the Bayasol 50 MW PV Plant, the first solar project from the Dominican Republic and a pioneering initiative from the Small Island Developing States (SIDS) to be registered under the GCC program. This project exemplifies a strong commitment to sustainable development and reinforces the region’s efforts in mitigating climate change.
Project Overview
The Bayasol Solar Plant is located along the Francisco del Rosario Sanchez highway in the Angostura area of Baní municipality, Peravia province. The plant covers an extensive area of 947,172.73 m² and has a net electricity generation capacity of 98,355 MWh per year, supplying clean electricity to the National Interconnected Electrical System (SENI). By using solar energy, the project displaces grid electricity typically generated from fossil fuels, thereby reducing the country’s dependence on non-renewable energy sources.
GHG Emission Reductions
The project is forecasted to reduce 64,376 tonnes of CO2 equivalent (tCO2e) annually, with total projected emission reductions of 643,755 tCO2e over its 10-year crediting period. This significant reduction directly supports the global fight against climate change and aligns with GCC’s mission to promote real, measurable, and long-term emission reductions
Commitment to Environment, Society, and Sustainable Development
Beyond its environmental benefits, the Bayasol project is dedicated to achieving Environmental and Social No-Harm Certifications (E+ and S+), ensuring it positively contributes while safeguarding both the environment and society. Through its efforts to reduce CO2 emissions and generate clean energy, the project plays a crucial role in combating climate change.
The project is designed with responsible management practices, emphasizing hazardous waste management, water conservation, and a transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy. Socially, Bayasol is set to create long-term employment opportunities, empower women, elevate local income levels, and foster a culture of safety, health, and equality. Its comprehensive contributions are aligned with multiple UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG-5 (Gender Equality), SDG-7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), SDG-8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and SDG-13 (Climate Action). As a result, the project is on track to receive the Gold SDG Certification Label (SDG+).
Assurance and Compliance
The LGAI Technological Center, S.A. (Applus+ Certification) served as the project verifier, ensuring that the Bayasol project adheres to GCC standards, host country regulations, and global best practices. The project was verified in accordance with the ACM0002 methodology, version 21, for grid-connected electricity generation from renewable sources. The verifier’s report attests to the project’s compliance with GCC’s Environmental and Social Safeguard standards, affirming its commitment to no-net harm to both the environment and society while contributing to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Furthermore, the project is expected to meet GCC’s criteria for the indicative CORSIA Certification Label (C+), which signifies eligibility for emission reductions under the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA).
Conclusion
The registration of the Bayasol 50 MW PV Plant marks a significant advancement in the Dominican Republic’s renewable energy sector. With its robust contributions to clean energy production and substantial emission reductions, this project illustrates how solar energy can lead the charge towards sustainable development and effective climate action.
