Rural Electrification Brings Power Closer for Northern Villages

Residents of several remote communities across Belize are now a step closer to reliable electricity following the inauguration of a Rural Electrification Project held yesterday in Indian Church Village, Orange Walk District.  The initiative is a joint effort involving the European Union, Belize Electricity Limited (BEL), and the Government of Belize through the Ministry of Public Utilities, Energy, and Logistics. The project targets the villages of Indian Church, San Carlos, San Benito Poite, Jalacte, and San Vicente, many of which have long operated without consistent access to power.  The electrification programme dates back to 2021 when partners began securing funding for underserved areas. A formal agreement between the EU and BEL was signed in 2022, paving the way for construction works and technical assessments.  Originally planned as a micro-grid system, engineers later determined that connecting some communities directly to the national grid would provide more reliable long-term service. The project now includes a ten-mile interconnection line funded by BEL, along with distribution infrastructure jointly financed by BEL and the EU, including poles, transformers, street lighting and household wiring.  Officials say approximately 150 households are expected to benefit, with wiring now underway to allow residents to safely connect homes, farms and small businesses.  Minister of Public Utilities, Energy and Logistics Michel Chebat described the project as an important step toward equitable development, noting that rural communities should not be left behind in national progress. Representatives from BEL emphasized the expected economic impact on farming and small enterprises, while the EU delegation highlighted improved opportunities for education and livelihoods once power becomes available.  Authorities say continued collaboration will be needed to expand access and ensure reliable service beyond the initial rollout.